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Wellington Independent, Volume XVII, Issue 1755, 19 August 1862, Page 3

Remission of sentences on Criminals. Mr. FITZGERALD moved— For a list of all cases in which the sentences of Criminals have been remitted, in whole oi in part, by his Excellency th» Governor, since the Ist January, 1860. so far as the same can be given : together with the Correspondence relating to each case." He thought it would be very desirable that the information should be afforded, and though he did not wish to insinuate any charge against his Excellency or his advisers, but th© manner in which the system of remitting the sentences of criminals had been exercised, had created great dissatisfaction throughout the Colony, and in a case in Canterbury, a criminal of the worst character had been released. Mr. WARD was of opinion that the hon. member had not taken the right course to quiet the dis. satisfaction he spoke of. The information required might have been better obtained in another place, and did not think this motion would be productive of much satisfaction. Mr. STAFFORD said the hon. member ought to have stated what other place than this House, they were to look for information.^ He quite agreed with Mr. Fitzgerald, that very great dissatisfaction had been felt, and the Governor had received many resignations from Justices of the Peace, many more were being on their way to him. He thought if information were got, it would not only dispel that disaffection but that the House would then be able to judge how far that disaffection was well founded. The hon. Mr. GILLIES said, that the Government could have no objection to furnish the information if required. It would be better to move for the correspondence in particular cases, as the full information would fill a blue book, and the object in view would be defeated, as people would not wade through such a mass of useless correspondence. He might further state that the register of for a considerable period was lost in the White Swan. Mr. FOX thought the returns ought to be furnished, but was glad this had not been made a party question, as it was a matter so intimately connected with the functions of all Governments. He had heard of a Superintendent, who had gone to the gaol in person, and liberated a whole raft of criminals on his natal day, after the manner of royalty. If the papers were lurnished, Jt would show if there were any foundation for the complaints that have been made. After some further remarks from Mr. Fitzgerald the motion was agreed to.