KING COUNTRY TENURES

Waikato Times, Volume 91, Issue 14167, 18 September 1919, Page 2

KING COUNTRY TENURES

DEPUTfITSON TO IVII NISTERSL REMOVAL OF DISABILITIES. WAY OUT OF THE DIFFICULTY. (United Press Association.) WELLINGTON. Wednesday. A representative deputation from the King Country waited upon the Prime Minister and Minister of Native Affairs this morning and urged that the disadvantages under which residents m Te Kuili, Taumarunui, and Otorohanga suffered as a result of the towns in question being Maori-owned should he removed. The Prime Minister said Hie matter ■was one of importance to the whole Dominion. Tire suggestion that the State should purchase the property in the towns concerned from the natives willing to sell appealed to him as fair and just. It was essential, of course, that the interests of the natives should he protected. He hoped that it would be possible to get something done this session. Hon W. H.’ Herries expressed the opinion that the Act of 1913 gave ample power to do what the deputation was asking. If natives were willing to sell ’he was quite prepared to call a meeting of owners and, if possible, effect the purchase. In making tire purchase, however, the Crown must be protected by a guarantee from the present tenants that they would re-purchase the property from the State. The deputation said they were prepared to do this.