REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS A TO L COMMITTEE. (Mr. JOYCE, CHAIRMAN.)

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1898 Session I, I-01

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1898. NEW ZEALAND.

REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS A TO L COMMITTEE. (Mr. JOYCE, CHAIRMAN.)

Presented to the House of Representatives, and ordered to,be printed.

INDEX.

No. Petition. Page. No. Petition. Page. 333 160* 38 222 388 121 309 83 A. Aitken, J. G. W., and Others Armstrong, T. S., and Others Anderson, J. G. Andrews, Charles Arnold, E., arid Others Atkinson, H. S , and Others Atkinson, T., and Others Aubert, Mother Mary Joseph 10 1 1 7 12 5 8 1 62 94 151* 2 267* 318 6 343 Goira, Peter Coulter, Mrs. E. Cook, W. Coventry, Annie Craig, J. W., and Others Crawford, W., and Others Crofts, H. E. .. Crossey, Alfred (see I.-lc) 3 2 3 3 3 8 3 11 339 249 42 322 314* 79 307 341 341* 360 137 321 329* 325 205 353 24* 96 264 363 386 59 81 7 50 8 268 B. Baker, Robert Banks, D. Barry, W. J. (No. 1) .. Barry, W. J. (No. 2) Barry, W. J. .. Barnes, Catherine Baucke, H. (No. 1) Baucke, H. (No. 2) Bayley, C. R. .. Beale, J. A., and Others Beamish, G. J. N. (on behalf of brother) .. Beamish, W. H. S. Beattie, F. .. Beaufoy, H., and Others Bell, A. W. Blaramberg, H. von (No. 2) Blaramberg, H. von Blaramberg, H. von (No. 1) Boynton, F. W. (No. 1).. Boynton, F. W. (No. 2).. Breakell, W. O. Brooking, J., and Others Brown, Charles Brown, T. D. .. Buller.Sir W. L. (see I.-1b) Burk, W. J., and Others Butterworth, E. J., and Others 9 10 8 8 2 11 8 9 2 11 2 8 2 9 •2 "9 2^ 7 8 11 12 1 1 2 12 6 9 64 330* 119 293 335 198 D. Davey, E. W., and Others Denderson, John Dowden, E., and Others 'Duncan, J. B. (No. 1) .. Duncan, J. R. (No. 2) .. Dunedin (Union Street) School Committee and Others 4 4 4 7 9 6 E. 162 Erson, W. R. C. 7 F. 6 6 4 12 7-8 10 11 '217 218 90 Fekus, R. J. .. Feltus, R. J. .. Field, Emma Final Report Fitzgerald, W. 0. (see I.-1a) Fry, Helen Fry, Thomas A. 192 334 61* 344 13 35 154* 57 312 374 343* 204 183 G. 12 10 4 4 4 9 10 4 6 6 Garrard, W. G. Gaseoyne, F. J. W. Gillies, Lucy E. Godfrey, W. F., and Others Goullet, F. R. .. Greer, H. L. .. Grimstone, Marie A. Gow, N., and Others Guilding, John Guthrie, R. .. 24 240 84 158 303* 110 39 295* 180 30 340* 227 148 c. Campbell, N. J., and Others Carlton, W, and Others Casley, W. J. .. Chambers, W. N. Clarke, E. L. (No. 2) .. Clarke, E. L. (No. 2) .. Clarke, E. L. (No. 1) .. Clarke, E. L. (No. 1) .. Clarke, W. H. .. Clark, J., and Others Clouston, W. E., and Others Clout, Elizabeth Collis, W. A., and Others (New Plymouth School Committee) 3 2 6 2 3 8 8 4 6 3 3 7 3 167 251 156 273 89 60 225* 145 99 174' 32 H. Han nan, D. .. Hayman, P., and Co., and Others Healey, Joseph, and Others Herbert, Patrick Hickmott, J. A., and Others Hill, George Hill, Sarah Anne ' Howard, S. .. Hovell, H. K. .. Huddleston, H. B. Hyams, M. 8 7 9 12 5 1 12 5 5 4 4 * 1! S97. i—I. 1.

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INDEX- continued.

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So. Petition. Page. No. Petition. Page 116 337* 34 266 J. Jourdain, W. R., and Others Johnston, James Johnston, James Johnston, Joseph 5 5 8 7 97 10 124 364 385 78 Lockington, E. P., and Others Logan, Jane F. Loveday, William (No. 1) Loveday, William (No. 2) Ludwig, E. 0. .. Luke, John, and Others 5 5 5 11 il 5 286 185 142 381 Kells, J. P. .. Kern, Caroline JKnight, Charlotte Kupe, Wi 11 11 7 11 9 269 M. Macbeth, F. .. McLaughlin, W., and Others 6 9 65 41 150 77 L. Langman, R. .. Leech, Captain S. A. Leslie, J. B. .. Leighton, M. .. 5 6 9 5 250 330 93 133 S. Scott and Co. and Others Sidey, D., and Others .. St. Albans School Committee and Others Sommervile, J. R., and Others 7 9 6 7 *V

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1898. NEW ZEALAND.

Presented to the House of Representatives, and ordered to be printed.

ORDER OF REFERENCE. Extract from the Journals of the House of Representatives. Tuesday, the 28th day op June, 1898. Ordered, —" That a Public Petitions A. to L. Committee, consisting of ten members, be appointed to consider all petitions that may be referred to it by the Petitions Classification Committee, to classify and prepare abstraots of suoh petitions in such form as shall appear to it best suited to convey to this House all requisite information respeoting their contents, and to report the same from time to time to this House, and to have power to report its opinions and observations thereupon to this House ; also to have power to call for papers and persons ; three to be a quorum. The Committee to consist of Mr. Crowther, Mr. Joyce, Mr. J. W. Kelly, Mr. Lawry, Mr. R. McKenzie, Mr. MoLean, Mr. O'Regan, Mr. Symes, Mr. Lethbridge, and the mover."—(Hon. W. Hall-Jones.)

No. 38.—Petition of J. G. Anderson, of Masterton. Petitioner prays for the remission of a fine imposed under the Beer Duty Act. I am directed to report that, as there are extenuating circumstances and evidently no fraudulent intention upon the part of the petitioner, the Committee recommends that half the fine be remitted. 29th July, 1898.

No. 83.—Petition of Mother Mary Joseph Aubert, of Jerusalem, Wanganui. Petitioner prays for assistance to enlarge the Foundling Home at Jerusalem, on the Wanganui Eiver. I am directed to report that the Committee, having gone very fully into the subject-matter of the petition, and having found the object and methods to be most worthy, recommends the petition to the favourable consideration of the Government. 29th July, 1898.

No. 160 (1897). —Petition of T. S. Armstrong and 34 Others, of Waikomiti, Auckland. Petitioners pray that the sum of £500 may be put upon the estimates for metalling the TitirangiBrooklyn Eoad. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. Bth July, 1898.

No. 81.—Petition of Chables Beown, of New Plymouth. Petitioner prays that the Committee's former report may be given effect to. I am directed to report that, the petitioner having accepted his reappointment as a Licensed Native Interpreter, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th August, 1898.

Nos. 59 and 60. —Petition of J. Brooking and 69 Others, and George Hill, of Devonport, Auckland. Petitioners pray that G. Hill may receive further compensation for discharge from the Torpedo Corps, or suitable employment. I—l. 1.

REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS A TO L COMMITTEE (Me. JOYCE, CHAIRMAN.)

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I am directed to report that, taking into consideration the valuable services the petitioner has rendered to the country, the Committee is of the opinion that the Government should find him suitable employment without delay. 4th August, 1898.

No. 329 (1897).—Petition of F. Beattie, of Waihi. Petitioner prays for compensation upon retiring from the Police Force. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. sth July, 1898.

No. 24 (1897). —Petition of H. yon Blaramberg, of Palmerston North. Petitioner prays for redress. I am directed to report that, the petitioner having, through his counsel, asked leave to withdraw the petition, the Committee recommends that he be allowed to withdraw the same. sth July, 1898.

No. 205.—Petition of A. W. Bell and 39 Others, of Hunua, Auckland. Petitionees prays that a sum of money may be granted for the construction of the Hunua main road. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 13th September, 1898.

No. 137.—Petition of G. J. N. Beamish, of Wellington, upon behalf of his Brother, W. H. S. Beamish. Petitioner prays for compensation for military services. I am directed to report that the Committee finds that Mr. G. J. N. Beamish has no locus standi before Parliament—as agent for his brother, Mr. W. H. S. Beamish—in the matter of signing a petition upon his brother's behalf; and that, leave having been asked to withdraw the said petition upon account of its informality, the Committee recommends that leave be granted accordingly, 19th August, 1898.

No. 341 (1897).—Petition of C. R. Bayley, of Hawera. Petitioner prays for a refund of stamp duty said to have been paid in excess of the correct amount. I am directed to report that the Committee, having very carefully considered all the facts of the case as presented, is of the opinion that the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 12th August, 1898.

No. 7. —Petition of T. D. Brown, of Maharahara, Woodville. Petitioner prays for compensation for injuries said to have been received while in the Police Force. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 11th August, 1898. No. 314 (1897).—Petition of W. Jackson Babey, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for the refund of moneys alleged to have been expended in the service of the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee, having gone very fully into the whole of the evidence adduced by the petitioner, is of the opinion that he has no claim against the colony. 13th July, 1898.

No. 240.—Petition of W. Cablton and 117 Others, of Ratanui, Clufcha. Petitionees pray that a sum of money may be granted to metal the Owaka-Waikawa Road. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 13th September, 1898.

No. 94.—Petition of Mrs. B. Coulteb and 5 Others, of Kaitangata. Petitionebs pray for an inquiry into the administration of the Kaitangata Belief Fund, and for relief. I am directed to report that, as it would require an amending Act to give effect to the prayer of the petition, the Committee is of the opinion that the petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 19th August, 1898.

No. 158. —Petition of W. N. Chambbks, of Dunedin. Petitioner prays for compensation for loss of office. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Railways Committee. 17th August, 1898.

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No. 24.—Petition of N. J. Campbell and 125 Others, of Waipu. Petitioners pray that the sum of £300 may be granted for the purposes of road-construction. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 17th August, 1898.

No. 148.—Petition of W. A. Collis, Chairman of the New Plymouth School Committee, and 22 Others. Petitioners pray that all School Inspectors may be placed under the control of the Education Department. I am directed to report that, as the prayer of the petitioners involves a question of public policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 16th August, 1898.

No. 62.—Petition of Peter Coira, of Temuka. Petitioner prays that certain articles of jewellery may be returned to him by the police. I am directed to report that, it having been shown that the Solicitor-General has advised that the police have no legal power to comply with the petitioner's request, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 2nd August, 1898.

No. 2.—Petition of Annie Coventry, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for the payment of a further sum of money for patent rights in re telephone subscribers' index. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 29th July, 1898.

No. 340 (1897).—Petition of W. E. Clouston and Others, of Blenheim. Petitioners pray that provision may be made for a lighthouse upon Point Eobinson. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 29th July, 1898.

No. 151 (1897). —Petition of William Cook, of Upper Opaki, Masterton Petitioner prays that a certain road may be extended at the Government expense. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 22nd July, 1898.

No. 30.—Petition of J. Clack and 14 Others, of Waiau. Petitioners pray that the sum of £100 may be placed upon the estimates, as a grant-in-aid, for the purpose of erecting a wharf at Waiau Pa. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 22nd July, 1898.

No. 6.—Petition of H. E. Crofts, of 28, Ponsonby Eoad, Auckland. Petitioner prays for compensation for loss of office. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner has brought forward no evidence other than that which the Committee has considered upon previous occasions, the Committee sees no reason to vary its former report—viz., that the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 13th July, 1898.

No. 267 (1897).— Petition of J. W. Cbaig and 1,206 Others, of Napier. Petitionebs pray for the refund of legacy duty paid upon a bequest to the Hawke's Bay Children's Home. I am directed to report that the Committee is of the opinion that "The Charitable Gifts Duties Exemption Act, 1883," should be amended to provide for bequests to charitable institutions which may be unaffiliated under " The Unclassified Societies Eegistration Act, 1895," being paid to such institutions free of legacy duty; but, as the matter involves a question of public policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make. Bth July, 1898. .

No. 303 (1897).— Petition of E. L. Clack, Brickmaker, of Auckland. Petitionek prays for an inquiry into an action of the Eegistrar of the Supreme Court at Auckland. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 7th July, 1898.

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No. 295 (1897).—Petition of E. L. Clark and 25 Others, of Auckland. Petitioners pray for an inquiry regarding a decision of the Supreme Court at Auckland. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 7th July, 1898.

No. 119.—Petition of E. Dowden and 53 Others, of Waikomiti, Auckland. Petitioners pray that the sum of £500 may be granted for road-repairs. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 13th September, 1898.

No. 64. —Petition of B. W. Davey and 38 Others, of Hukerenui South. Petitioners pray for a grant-in-aid for road- and bridge-construction in Hukerenui South. I am directed, to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 12th August, 1898.

No. 330 (1897). —Petition of John Denderson, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for some recognition of his services to the colony. I am directed to report that, as no evidence has been produced by the petitioner, the Committtee has no recommendation to make. 13th July, 1898.

No. 90. —Petition of Emma Field, of Ponsonby, Auckland. Petitioner prays that relief may be granted her, and that the Committee's previous recommendations may be given effect to. I am directed to report that the Committee is of the opinion that the petitioner is entitled to the relief asked for, and directs the attention of the Government to the reports of the Public Petitions A to L Committee for the last five years. 31st August, 1898.

No. 35. —Petition of Lucy E. Gillies, of Green Island, Otago. Petitionee prays for relief under " The Kaitangata Belief Fund Act, 1892." I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner's husband met his death by a coal-mining accident within the meaning of " The Kaitangata Belief Fund Transfer Act, 1892," and recommends that the petitioner should receive relief if there is any fund available for the purpose. 4th August, 1898.

No. 57. —Petition of F. E. Goullet, of 115, Grey Street, Auckland. Petitioner prays that he may be reinstated in the Police Force. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 3rd August, 1898.

No. 154 (1897). —Petition of W. F. Godfrey and 69 Others, of Waitemata, Auckland. Petitioners pray that the sum of £500 may be placed upon the estimates for improving and metalling the road from Henderson Eailway-station to the West Coast. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. Bth July, 1898.

No. 343 (1897).—Petition of N. Gow and 35 Others, of Mercury Bay. Petitionees pray for a sum of money to procure a water-supply. £ I-." I am directed to report that, as further evidence is needed to enable the Committee to arrive at a proper decision in the matter, it has no recommendation to make. sth July, 1898.

No. 32.—Petition of M. Hyams, of Willis Street, Wellington. Petitioner prays that a certain sum of money, said to be owing to him by the Land- and Incometax Department, may be paid. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner has not exhausted his legal remedies, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 20th July, 1898.

No. 174 (1897).—Petition of H. B. Huddleston, of Blenheim. Petitionee prays for redress as against the Survey Department. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 7th July, 1898.

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No. 145.—Petition of S. Howabd, of Waitara, Taranaki. Petitionee prays for compensation for military services. I am directed to report that the petitioner not having applied to have his claim registered under " The Naval and Military Claims Settlement and Extinguishment Act, 1896," the said claim is now barred by statute; the Committee has therefore no recommendation to make. 17th August, 1898.

No. 99. —Petition of H. K. Hovell, of Devonport. Petitionee prays for compensation and relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 16th August, 1898.

No. 89. —Petition of J. A. Hickmott and 25 Others, of Christchurch. Petitioners pray that " The Shops and Shop-assistants Act, 1896," may be amended in the manner indicated. I am directed to report that, as the prayer of the petition involves a question of public policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th August, 1898.

No. 337 (1897). —Petition of James Johnston, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for an inquiry and relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. sth July, 1898.

No. 124.—Petition of William Loveday, of 88, Pollen Street, Thames (No. 1). Petitioner prays for inquiry into his case, and for redress. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner has not apparently exhausted his legal remedies, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 15th September, 1898.

Nos. 97, 116, and 121.—Petitions of B. P. Lockington and 42 Others, of Eeefton; W. E. Jourdain and 67 Others, of Napier; and H. S. Atkinson and 2,395 Others, of Christchurch. Petitioners pray that the Cycle Traffic Bill may not pass. I am directed to report that, as a Bill dealing with the matter of these petitions is now before the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 16th August, 1898.

No. 78. —Petition of John Luke and 14 Others, of Mataitai. Petitioners pray that a sum of money may be placed upon the estimates for the purpose of making a road to Mataitai. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 12th August, 1898.

No. 10.—-Petition of Jane F. Logan, of Dunedin. Petitioner prays that she may be granted a compassionate allowance upon account of her late husband's service to the Government. I am directed to report that the Committee finds that had the petitioner's husband remained in the service for two months longer his widow would have been entitled to a year's salary. In view of all the circumstances, the Committee is of the opinion that the case is one deserving of favourable consideration by the Government, and recommends that the petitioner should receive a compassionate allowance of £150. 29th July, 1898.

No. 77, —Petition of M. Leighton, of George Street, Mount Boskill, Auckland. Petitionee prays for further compensation for injuries received while in the service of the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 26th July, 1898.

No. 65. —Petition of E. Langman, of New Plymouth. Petitioner prays that he may be granted a pension for military service. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 26th July, 1898. 2—l. 1.

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No. 41.—Petition of Captain S. A. Leech, of Westport. Petitionee prays that effect may be given to the previous recommendations of the Committee. I am directed to report that, the Public Petitions A to L Committee of 1896 and 1897 having reported fully upon this petition, the Committee has no further recommendation to make. 22nd July, 1898.

No. 9. —Petition of F. Macbeth, of Hokianga. Petitionee prays for a compassionate allowance. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Public Petitions M to Z Committee. 26th July, 1898.

No. 93. —Petition of St. Albans School Committee and 49 Others, of Christchurch. Petitionees pray that all School Inspectors may be placed under the control of the Education Department.

I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration; but, as the subject-matter of the petition involves a question of public policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 29th July, 1898.

No. 198. —Petition of the Union Steeet (Dunedin) School Committee and 17 other Committees. Petitionees pray that all School Inspectors may be placed under the control of the Education Department. I am directed to report that, as the prayer of the petition involves a matter of public policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 31st August, 1898.

No. B.—Petition of W. J. Buck and 30 Others, of St. Kilda. The petitioners pray for compensation on account of the encroachment of the sea at St. Kilda, said to have been caused by negligence upon the part of the Defence Department. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioners have sustained considerable damage through the action of the officers of the Defence Department in the manner of constructing the Central Battery. The Committee therefore recommends the petition to the favourable consideration of the Government. 30th August, 1898.

No. B.—Petition of W. J. Buck and 30 Others, of St. Kilda. The petitioners pray for compensation on account of the encroachment of the sea at St. Kilda, said to have been caused by negligence upon the part of the Defence Department. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioners hare sustained considerable damage through the action of the officers of the Defence Department in the manner of constructing the Central Battery. The Committee therefore recommends the petition to the favourable consideration of the Government.

No. 84.—-Petition of William James Casley, of Centre Street, Freeman's Bay, Auckland. The petitioner prays for a grant of land for military services. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner's claim has been considered and reported upon by the Commissioner appointed under " The Naval and Military Claims Settlement and Extinguishment Act, 1896," the Committee has no recommendation to make. 20th September, 1898.

No. 180.—Petition of W. H. Claeke, of Arawa Street, Eotorua.The petitioner prays for compensation for military services. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner's claim has been considered and reported upon by the Commissioner appointed under " The Naval and Military Claims Settlement and Extinguishment Act, 1896," the Committee has no recommendation to make. 20th September, 1898.

No. 183.—Petition of E. Gutheie, of Pollen Street, Thames. The petitioner prays that he may receive value for a remission certificate granted under the Volunteer Land Acts, 1865-67, and purchased by him. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner's claim has been considered and reported upon by the Commissioner appointed under "The Naval and Military Claims Settlement and Extinguishment Act, 1896," the Committee has no recommendation to make. 20th September, 1898.

No. 204.—Petition of John Guilding, of Te Aroha. The petitioner prays for compensation for military services. I am directed to report that, the petitioner not having applied to have his claim registered under " The Naval and Military Claims Settlement and Extinguishment Act, 1896," the said claim is now barred by statute; the Committee has therefore no recommendation to make. 20th September, 1898.

Nos. 217 and 218.—Petitions of E. J. Feltus, of Auckland. The petitioner prays for compensation for military services rendered by himself and family. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner's claim has been considered and reported upon by the Commissioner appointed under "The Naval and Military Claims Settlement and Extinguishment Act, 1896," the Committee has no recommendation to make. 20th September, 1898.

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No. 222.—Petition of Chables Andeews, of Aratapu, Northern Wairoa. The petitioner prays for compensation for military services. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner's claim has been considered and reported upon by the Commissioner appointed under " The Naval and Military Claims Settlement and Extinguishment Act, 1896," the Committee has no recommendation to make. 20th September, 1898.

No. 227. —Petition of Elizabeth Clout, of Howe Street, Auckland. The petitioner prays for compensation for military services rendered by her late husband. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner's claim has been considered and reported upon by the Commissioner appointed under " The Naval and Military Claims Settlement and Extinguishment Act, 1896," the Committee has no recommendation to make. 20th September, 1898.

Nos. 250 and 251.—Petitions of Scott and Co. and 23 Others, of Wellington, and P. Hayman and Co. and 6 Others, of Dunedin. The petitioners pray that the Customs tariff upon wax-vestas may be reduced (say, 25 per cent.), or an excise duty levied to the equivalent thereof, in order that the importers may be placed upon an equality with the local manufacturers. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration; but, as the matter involves a question of public policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 20th September, 1898.

No. 293.—Petition of J. E. Duncan, of Ponsonby, Auckland (No. 1). The petitioner prays for an inquiry into the circumstances under which a petition forwarded by him, and presented to the House last session, has been lost. I am directed to report that, having made as full an inquiry as possible into the matter, the Committee is of the opinion that the loss of the said petition was an unavoidable accident, and that the Clerk of the Committee is not to be blamed. 22nd September, 1898.

No. 142. —Petition of Chablotte Knight, of New Brighton, Christchurch. The petitioner prays for an inquiry and for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the Government to cause an inquiry to be made into all the facts of the case by a Magisterial Commission. 22nd September, 1898. "

Nos. 96 and 133.—Petitions of H. yon Blaeambekg (No. 1), of Palmerston North, and J. K. SoMMEBViLLE and 51 Others, of Matarawa. The petitioners pray for inquiry into the matter of H. yon Blaramberg's dismissal by the Wanganui Education Board, and for relief. I am directed to report that, the Minister of Education having made the inquiry recommended by the Committee upon a former occasion, and having found that no cause had been shown for the appointment of a Eoyal Commission, and also having regard to the fact that the Education Act does not authorise the Minister to review the actions of an Education Board, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 22nd September, 1898.

No. 266.—Petition of Joseph Johnston, of Arch Hill, Auckland. The petitioner prays for an inquiry and for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee, having carefully considered the evidence before it, has no recommendation to make. 27th September, 1898.

No. 162.—Petition of W. E. C. Eeson and 2 Others, of Onehunga. The petitioners pray that the cost of maintenance of the Mangere Bridge may be readjusted. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends that, upon the application of the Onehunga Borough Council, a Commission be appointed to readjust the proportionate payments of the cost ef maintaining the said bridge. 27th September, 1898. ■

No. 192. —Petition of William C. Fitzgebald, of Willis Street, Wellington. The petitioner prays that the Government may reimburse him the moneys expended in defending an action in the Supreme Court brought against him as a Public Vaccinator. I am directed to report that the Committee finds, —(1.) That the petitioner has had to defend an unwarranted civil action in the Supreme Court, in which his ability as a Public Vaccinator was assailed, and that judgment was given for the petitioner with costs. (2.) That from the evidence given before the Committee there was not a shadow of proof to show that the petitioner was incompetent or wanting in ability to discharge the duties of a Public Vaccinator. (3.) That in the civil action in the Supreme Court the plaintiff was a man without money, and without good reputation, and the petitioner cannot obtain from him the costs awarded by the Supreme Court. (4.) That, in the interests of the public generally, and of its public officials, the petitioner should be paid out of the public exchequer all moneys properly expended by him in defending the action in

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the Supreme Court. (5.) That the Crown Solicitor should tax the costs and moneys out of pocket payable by the petitioner; and the Committee recommends that, when so taxed, the Government should pay the same. (Vide Appendix 1.-lα.) 27th September, 1898.

No. 34. —Petition of James Johnston, of Wellington. The petitioner prays for an inquiry and for relief. I am directed to report that, as no fresh evidence has been produced to distinguish this from the previous petitions upon the same matter, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 28th September, 1898.

No. 167.—Petition of D. Hannan, of Stafford. The petitioner prays for an inquiry and for relief on account of loss of office in the Police Department. I am directed to report that the Committee, having very carefully inquired into all the circumstances of the case, has no recommendation to make. 29th September, 1898.

No. 307. —Petition of Henry Baucke, of Wellington (No. 1). The petitioner prays that his claims against the Government may be settled during this session. I am directed to report that, as the petition discloses no new ground for investigation, and no new facts are produced upon which it might be possible to vary the decisions arrived at upon so many previous occasions, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 29th September, 1898.

No. 39.—Petition of E. L. Clack, of Albert Street, Auckland (No. 1). The petitioner prays for an inquiry and for relief. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner alleges nothing other than has been dealt with on previous occasions, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 29th September, 1898.

No. 110.—Petition of E. L. Clark, of Albert Street, Auckland (No. 2). The petitioner prays that an Act may be passed to enable lunatics to have their grievances tried by a jury of twelve. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 29th September, 1898.

No. 42.—Petition of W. J. Bakey, of Wellington (No. 1). The petitioner prays that he may receive a compassionate allowance. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner has brought forward no new facts to distinguish this from the previous petitions of a like nature, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 29th September, 1898.

No. 322.—Petition of W. J. Baeky, of Wellington (No. 2). The petitioner prays that he may be heard at the bar of the House upon the subject of his grievances. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 29th September, 1898.

No. 321.—Petition of W. H. S. Beamish, of Perth, W.A. The petitioner prays for further inquiry into his case and for relief. I am directed to report that, from the documentary evidence in the Lands and Survey Department, which evidence has been produced before the Committee, and which was perused by the Commissioner appointed to dispose of the petitioner's claim and all other claims made under " The Naval and Military Claims Settlement and Extinguishment Act, 1896," there is no justification for the Commissioner's adverse decision upon the claim of the petitioner as reported in H.-13, 1898, page 6 ; and the Committee recommends the Government to introduce a remedial measure, so that the Commissioner's report may be reviewed. 4th October, 1898.

No. 318. —Petition of W. Ceawfobd and 17 Others, of Maungakaramea, Auckland. The petitioners pray for a grant in aid of road construction at Maungakaramea. I am directed to report that, it having been shown that the Government has already made provision for the work indicated, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 14th October, 1898.

No. 309. —Petition of T. Atkinson and 23 Others, of Arapohue, Auckland. The petitioners pray for a grant in aid of road construction at Arapohue. I am directed to report that, the matter having already been fully considered and dealt with by the Lands and Survey Department, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 14th October, 1898.

No. 264.—Petition of P. W. Boynton, of Port Street, Auckland (No. 1). The petitioner prays that he may be recompensed for special services said to have been rendered to the Government, and for inquiry and relief.

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I am directed to report that, in the face of the fact that the petitioner has, through his solicitor, threatened to take legal proceedings in this matter, and that, not having done so, he has not exhausted his legal remedies, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 14th October, 1898.

Nos. 325 and 330.—Petitions of H. Beaufoy and 4 Others, of Te Arai, Poverty Bay, and D. SiDEY and Others, of Napier. The petitioners pray that the payment of certain costs incurred by a portion of the Te Arai School Committee may be settled by the Government. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends that the costs of the Te Arai School Committee be subjected to taxation, and that the amount, when ascertained, should be paid by the Government, and deducted from the annual grant to the Hawke's Bay Education Board. 14th October, 1898.

No 335. —Petition of J. E. Duncan, of Jervois Eoad, Ponsonby, Auckland (No. 2). The petitioner prays that an inquiry may be held into the administration of the Treasury Department. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner has not formulated any specific charge against any person in the Treasury Department, nor yet produced any evidence to support his vague general charges, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 21st October, 1898.

Nos. 268 and 269. —Petitions of B. J. Butteewoeth and 23 Others, of Papakura, and W. McLaughlin and 133 Others, of Papakura, Auckland. The petitioners pray that a sum of money may be placed upon the estimates to metal a portion of the Great South Eoad in the Auckland District. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 21st October, 1898.

No. 156.—Petition of Joseph Hbaley and 3 Others, of Whakatane. The petitioners pray for payment by the Government of the balance of certain contract moneys said to be owing. I am directed to report that, no corroborative evidence having been produced to support the petitioners' statements, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 25th October, 1898.

No. 350.—Petition of J. B. Leslie, of Wellington. The petitioner prays that he may be granted a compassionate allowance. I am directed to report that, upon the evidence adduced, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 25th October, 1898.

No. 339.—Petition of Eobeet Bakee, of New Plymouth. The petitioner prays for compensation for military services. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner's claim has been considered and reported upon by the Commissioner appointed under " The Naval and Military Claims Settlement and Extinguishment Act, 1896," and as no further action can be taken without fresh legislation upon the matter, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 27th October, 1898.

No. 312. —Petition of H. L. Geeee, of Johnsonville. The petitioner prays for an inquiry into the mode of carrying out certain co-operative works. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. The Committee further recommends that in all future co-operative contracts a schedule of all the quantities of the work to be done should be attached to, and form part of, the contract before the work is commenced. This step seems necessary in view of the frequent complaints of a similar nature. 27th October, 1898.

No. 353.—Petition of H. yon Blaeambbeg, of Palmerston North (No. 2). The petitioner prays for inquiry and compensation. I am directed to report that the Committee, having read this petition, and having found that the same contains language of an improper character regarding the General Government, recommends that the petition should not be allowed to proceed.. 28th October, 1898.

No. 341. —Petition of H. Baucke, of Wellington (No. 2). The petitioner prays that his claims against the Government of New Zealand may receive prompt attention and payment. I am directed to report that the Committee, having read this petition, and having found that the same contains language of an improper character regarding the officials of the State, recommends that the petition should not be allowed to proceed. 28th October, 1898.

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No. 374. —Petition of Marie A. Geimstone, of Wellington. The petitioner prays that she may be granted a compassionate allowance upon account of her late husband's services. I am directed to report that, upon the evidence adduced, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 28th October, 1898.

No. 249.—Petition of D. Banks, of Ashley. The petitioner prays that he may receive compensation for the loss of certain sheep, entailed by an action at law. I am directed to report that, upon the evidence adduced, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 28th October, 1898.

No. 334.—Petition of Helen Fbt, of Wellington. The petitioner prays for relief under circumstances arising out of the stranding of the barque " William Manson." I am directed to report that the Committee, having gone very carefully and exhaustively into the subject-matter of the petition—viz., the stranding of the "William Manson"—finds as follows :— 1. That the stranding was caused by an error of judgment upon the part of Pilot Cox, and that Captain Fry was in no way responsible ; vide the finding of the nautical inquiry, which was as follows: "The decision of the Court in this matter has been come to after careful consideration, and the conclusion we have come to is that the captain and officers of the vessel are not at all to blame, and their certificates will be returned ; and, upon the other matter, that it appears to us that the only person responsible must be taken to be the pilot who was in charge of the vessel at the time of coming in, and that he, in the exercise of his judgment as pilot, chose a certain time for coming in which, in our opinion, was running too fine a risk in relying on the tide running beyond the calendar time. It is clear that at this time the tide was a little earlier than the calendar time. We have to say upon this matter that the loss or damage appears by the evidence to have been caused by the vessel grounding and becoming stranded on the point of Haulashore Island when being brought into harbour by Pilot Frederick William Cox; by her listing over to starboard and starting some of her seams and planks, so as to cause her to leak badly, and to require to be beached when got into the harbour, where she again listed over to starboard. That the nature of the loss or damage done was that the starboard side of the hull is much strained and sagged, and seams, &c, started, so that the water flows in and out. We find, —(1) That no blame attaches to the master or officers of the vessel; (2) that at the time of the casualty the vessel was in the sole charge of Frederick William Cox, Pilot for the Port of Nelson; (3) that the pilot made an error of judgment in attempting to bring in the vessel so late upon the tide ; (4) that when he found that the tide had begun to ebb it was better to push on as he did than to try to go back, but that it was a mistake to hug the point of Haulashore Island so closely ; (5) that Pilot Cox should pay the expenses and costs of this inquiry, which are ascertained at £6 10s." 2. That the evidence taken upon oath by the Committee, and as to this part of it admitted by Pilot Cox to be correct, shows that the " William Manson " was the first sailing-vessel of her size that he had taken into port at night-time; and that had he taken her into port during daylight— notwithstanding the assertion regarding a phenomenal tide—he would have observed the ebb-tide running out before he reached the narrows, and thus have saved the Vessel from stranding. 3. That, Pilot Cox being an officer of the Crown, the petitioner has no remedy at law, and therefore properly applies to Parliament for redress. 4. That the late Captain Fry owned forty-two sixty-fourths of the said barque, the " William Manson," and that he died on or about the 17th August last past, leaving his widow the sole legatee of his estate. 5. That, owing to the loss incurred by the stranding of the said vessel, amounting to over £1,000, which has had far-reaching consequences of a serious nature to the petitioner, such as the total loss of her late husband's life-insurance money, &c, the widow and her infant daughter are left in very straitened circumstances. The Committee therefore recommends that the Government should place upon the supplementary estimates such a sum as will reasonably compensate the petitioner for her personal share in the said loss; such sum not to be less than £750. 2nd November, 1898.

No. 333. —Petition of J. G. W. Aitken and Others, of Wellington. The petitioners pray that steps may be taken to suppress various forms of gambling, as set forth. I am directed to report that the Committee having found the petition to contain certain duplicated signatures, and, having pointed out the fact to the signatories, they have expressed regret that through inadvertence such a thing should have taken place, and asked leave to withdraw the petition. Taking all the circumstances into consideration, the Committee recommends that leave be granted accordingly. 2nd November, 1898.

No. 13.—Petition of F. J. W. Gascoyne, of Hastings. The petitioner prays that he may be granted a pension in accordance with his military rank and length of service, or such other relief as may seem meet,

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I am directed to report that, in che opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 2nd November, 1898.

No. 364. —Petition of William Loveday, of Pollen Street, Thames (No. 2). The petitioner prays for an inquiry and for relief. I am directed to report that, as in the opinion of the Committee the petitioner has not exhausted his legal remedies, it has no recommendation to make. 2nd November, 1898.

No. 363.—Petition of F. W. Boynton, of Fort Street, Auckland (No. 2). The petitioner prays for a refund of duty paid by him upon certain machinery. I am directed to report that the petitioner, having cited the case of Brett v. Eose regarding the duty upon certain printing machinery, has not upon his own showing exhausted his legal remedies in respect to the first part of the prayer of his petition ; therefore the Committee has no recommendation to make thereon. And, as regards the second part of the prayer, the Committee finds that it is a matter of public policy, and it has therefore no recommendation to make upon it. 2nd November, 1898.

No. 360.—Petition of J. A. Beale and Others, of Auckland. The petitioners pray that the cultivation of grape-vines, and the wine and brandy industries of New Zealand, may be encouraged by granting a bonus, or by a loan for that purpose. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these are matters entirely relating to the public policy of the Government, and the Committee has therefore no recommendation to make. 2nd November, 1898.

No. 61, 1897.—Petition of Thomas A. Fry, deceased. The petitioner prayed for inquiry and relief. I am directed to report that, the petitioner having died since the presentation of his petition, and that-his widow having petitioned Parliament upon the same behalf, the Committee recommends that the first petition should be allowed to lapse. 2nd November, 1898.

No. 381. —Petition of Wi Kupe, of Parihaka. The petitioner prays for the remission of certain fines imposed upon him for breaches of the Licensing Act. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner has not as yet applied for the remission of the said fines in the proper quarter, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 2nd November, 1898.

No. 79. —Petition of Catherine Barnes, of Wellington. The petitioner prays for inquiry and for relief. I am directed to report that, upon the facts adduced, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th November, 1898.

No. 343.—Petition of Alfred Ceossey, Eanfurly Hotel, Wellington. The petitioner prays for an inquiry into certain alleged actions of the police and for redress. I am directed to report that, the petitioner having appeared before the Committee and stated that he wished to withdraw the petition and all its contents, the Committee recommends that leave be granted accordingly. (Vide 1.-lc, Eeport of Commissioner of Police.) 4th November, 1898.

No. 385.—Petition of E. C. Ludwig, of 38, Lambton Quay, Wellington. The petitioner prays for inquiry and for relief. I am directed to report that, the petitioner not having exhausted his legal remedies, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th November, 1898.

No. 286.—Petition of J. F. Kells, of Palmerston North. The petitioner prays for compensation upon account of military services. I am directed to report that, the petitioner's case differing somewhat from other claims for military services, and as there seem to be points calling for inquiry, the Committee is of the opinion that the petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 4th November, 1898.

No. 185.—-Petition of Caroline Keen, of Tawaha, Featherston, The petitioner prays that she may receive compensation upon account of her late husband's military services.

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I am directed to report that, the petitioner not having applied to have her claim registered under " The Naval and Military Claims Settlement and Extinguishment Act, 1896," the said claim is now barred by statute; the Committee has therefore no recommendation to make. 4th November, 1898.

No. 225, 1897. —Petition of Sarah Ann Hill, of Egmont Eoad, Taranaki. The petitioner prays for a compassionate allowance. I am directed to report that the Committee, having made a very careful inquiry into the various matters alleged in the petition, finds that, upon the facts adduced, it has no recommendation to make. 4th November, 1898.

No. 344.—Petition of W. G. Gaeeaed, of Grey Street, Auckland. The petitioner prays that he may receive compensation for military services. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner's claim has been considered and reported upon by the Commissioner appointed under " The Naval and Military Claims Settlement and Extinguishment Act, 1896," the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th November, 1898.

No. 273. —Petition of Pateick Herbert, of Tauranga. The petitioner prays that he may receive compensation for military services. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner's claim has been considered and reported upon by the Commissioner appointed under " The Naval and Military Claims Settlement and Extinguishment Act, 1896," the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th November, 1898.

No. 50.—Petition of Sir Walter Lawey Bulleb, of Wellington. The petitioner prays that the Government may make provision for the payment of his costs in the case of the Public Trustee v. Sir Walter Buller and Major Kemp. I am directed to report that, upon the evidence adduced, the Committee has no recommendation to make. (Vide Appendix 1.-Iβ.) 4th November, 1898.

No. 388. —Petition of E. Arnold and 61 Others, of Wellington. The petitioners pray for the release from prison of Mrs. C. Locher. I am directed to report that, upon the evidence before the Committee, it has no recommendation to make. 4th November, 1898.

No. 386.—Petition of W. C. Beeakell, of Scarratts, Northern Wairoa. The petitioner prays for an inquiry and for relief. I am directed to report that, upon the evidence adduced, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th November, 1898.

Final Ebpoet. I am directed to report that the Committee has had 118 petitions referred to it by the Classification Committee, has held forty-eight meetings to consider the same, and has brought up 115 reports thereon, viz : — Specific recommendations ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 For favourable consideration of Government ... ... ... ... 16 For consideration of Government ... ... ... ... ... 8 No claim or no recommendation ... ... ... ... ... 70 Eeferred to other Committees ... ... ... ... ... 3 Eecommended to be allowed to withdraw ... ... ... ... 4 Eecommended to be allowed to lapse... ... ... ... ... 1 Eecommended not to be allowed to proceed ... ... ... ... 2 115 Held over until next session ... ... ... ... ... 3 Total 118 4th November, 1898. Approximate Cost of Paper.— Preparation, not given; printing (1,325 copies), £8 7s.

Authority : John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington.—lB9B.

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