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

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1899 Session I, I-01

J. — 1.

1899. NEW ZEALAND.

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

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

ORDER OP REFERENCE. Extract from the Journals of the House of Representatives. Wednesday, the 12th Day of July, 1899. Ordered " That a Publio Petitions A to L Committee, consisting of ten members, be appointed to consider all Petitions that may be referred to it by the Petitions GlassiSoation Committee, to classify and prepare abstracts of such Petitions in such form as shall appear to it best suited to convey to this House all requisite information respecting their oontents, 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 oall for papers and persons; three to be a quorum : the Committee to oonsist of Mr. Crowther, Mr. Joyce, Mr. Kelly, Mr. Lawry, Mr. Lethbridge, Mr. R. McKenzie, Mr. McLean, Mr. O'Regan, Mr. Symes, and the Mover."—(Hon. W. Hall Jones.)

INDEX.

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No. Petition. Page. No. Petition. Page. 159 398 290 363 Adolph, H. Alexander, A. M., and Others Alford, Emma M. Armstrong, D., and Others 4 7 8 6 487 479 73 50 263 40 504 347 106 181 319 36 375 178 Carrigan, E., and Others Christensen, J. L., and Others .. Churton, W. H. • .. Clack,E. P. .. Clark, E. L. .. Clarke, C. Clarke, W. H. Cleland, J., and Others Cochran, A., jun., and Others Cole-Baker, N., and Others Comrie, W. J., and Others Connolly, P. A. Crofts, H. E. .. Culling, T. S., and Others 11 9 3 9 8 4 11 6 6 5 6 3 7 7 406 181 191 163 103 '312 212 174 59 48 135 Bailey, B., and Others Baker, N. C, and Others Banks, D. Bannerman, Rev. W. .. Barron, T. Bell, J. Bernech, J., and Others Bezar, E. .. •' • Blackbourn, E. A., and Others Blackmore, P. P. Blair, J. R. (on behalf of the Victoria College) Blake, A., and Others .. Blaramberg, H. von Boynton, P. .. Brady, R. Braun, H. Brown, C. Bucelli and Soero Buck, I. Buckland, J. .. Buller, C. W. .. Buller, Sir W. L. Burr, A. Burr, W., and Others Butcher, K., and Others 9 5 6 5 9 11 7 6 6 3 11 454 393 -380 215 179 316 46 84 165 93 127 5 327 505 9 11 11 7 6 11 4 3 10 4 11 3 8 10 49 490 133 305 517 433 42 232 234 346 476 369 295 Dacre, J., and Others .. Dawson, W., and Others Dee, E. W., and Others Dickson, Rev. J., and Others Dilworth, J., and Others Doig, T. Dollman, T. .. Donald, A. B., and Others (No. 1) Donald, A. B., and Others (No. 2) Donald, J., and Others Douglass, J. St.', and Others Downard, P., and Others Drumm, J., and Others 2 10 5 6 11 8 5 5 8 6 9 9 8 8 5 11 184 348 78 462 335 426 Edridge, H. E., and Others Edwards, A. W., and Another .. Edwards, W. B. Ellis, G. O, and Others Ellis, Henry Elmslie, J., and Others 5 9 11 9 8, 11 9 331 194 143 Campbell, G. A., and Others (No. 1) Campbell, G. A., and Others (No. 2) Carey, M. * 1897. tl898.

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INDEX— continued.

No. 21.—Petition of William Logic, of Dunedin. Petitioner prays that he may be granted an old-age pension. I am directed to report that the Committee have no recommendation to make 27th July, 1899.

No. 61.—Petition of D. Goldie and Others (No. 1), of Auckland. Petitioners pray that the petition of Samuel Southerby, presented to the House of Bepresentatives in session of 1898, may be taken into consideration. I am directed to report that the Committee recommend that this petition be referred to the Waste Lands Committee. 27th July, 1899.

Nos. 49, 64, 79, and 83.—Petitions of James Dacrb and Others, of Auckland; J. H. Keesing and Others, of Wanganui; Newton King and Others, of New Plymouth : and Edward Gorton and Others, of Feilding. Petitioners pray that the Auctioneers Act Amendment Bill may not be made law. ; I am directed to report that, as the Bill in question is now "before the House of Bepresentatives, the Committee have no recommendation to make. 27th July, 1899.

No. 51.—Petition of Ernest Lambert, of Parawai, Thames. Petitioner complains of the delay which occurred between the date of his application and the actual recording of his name on the list of old-age pensioners, whereby he lost one month's pension He prays redress. r I am directed to report that the Committee have no recommendation to make upon this petition 27th July, 1899. r

No. Petition. Page. il No ' Petition. I Page. 486 229 437 Entrican, S. W., and Others Evans, CD... Ewan, R., and Others 10 6 9 ! 13 | 129 Hislop, J., and Others Hokianga County Council, W. Burr and Others, on behalf of the Home, S. Huddleston, H. B. Hunter, W. .. Hurley, H., and Others Hutcheson, J., and Others Hutchings, E, and Others 5 4 401 132 122 147 90 195 196 Pairchild, Mary Falconer, W. L. Parrer, Caroline R., and Others.. Pawcett, C. A., and Others Peltus, R. J. (No, 1) .. Peltus, R. J. (No. 2) .. Peltus, R. J. (No. 3) .. Pinal Report Fisher, George Fitzgerald, W. C. Fitzpatrick, J. (No. 1) .. Pitzpatrick, J. (No. 2)'.. Ford, J., and Others (No. 1) - .. Ford, J., and Others (No. 2) Franich, J. .. Eraser, Helen Fraser, W. C, and Others 7 5 3 5 11 11 11 12 6 4 10 10 5 5 11 8 10 i 235 I 199 ! 202 i. 88 326 203 7 5 7 4 9 6 488 Inglis, Rev. G. B., and Others 10 240 3 188 460 224 255 512 453 424 514 394 i 362 James, Johanna, and Others Johnson, E., and Others » Jones, M., and Others .. 11 8 6. 64 201 79 Keesing, J. H., and Others Kenealy, D. .. King, N., and Others .. 2 7 2 352 289 276 298 128 317 34 245 225 61 151 304 83 213 399 14 Gantley, J. .. .. Gardiner, C. P. Garrard, Theresa J. Gascoyne, Mrs. I. A. E. Gauntlett, Charity W. Gibson, J. Gibson, William E., and Others.. Gilpin, W., and Others.. Glasson, J. H., and Others Goldie, D., and Others (No. 1) .. Goldie, D., and Others (No. 2) .. Goldie, D., and Others (No. 3) .. Gorton, E., and Others Grant, T. Greensill, J. A. N., and Another Gunn, R. A. .. 3 7 11 6 3 6 10 5 5 2 7 11 2 7 11 3 51 144 145 54 15 465 21 495 Lambert, E. .. Lane, H., and Others (vide Appendix I.-1a) Lane and Brown, H., and Others Leech, Captain S. A. .. Lester, R. E. .. Lintern,T. Logie, W. Lynch, P. 2 8 5 3 4 11 2 11 ' 373 367 I 422 i 445 281 280 Macdonald, Rev. J., and Others.. McKenzie, O, and Others McPherson, A. J., and Others .. Manning, P. H., and Others Morrin, T. and S., and Others (No. 1) Morrin, T. and S., and Others (No. 2) .. 7 6 9 10 5 8 345 Norrie, Rev. T., and Others 6 405 485 489 65 326 185 139 502 292 . 32 91 461 94 Haddon, C. .. Hallett, W., and Others Hamlin, Isabella D. Hannan, D. Harbour Board, The, Wellington Harding, W. F., and Others Hayes, T. Hendriok, J., and Others Heighton, G. .. Henderson, H. Herring, J. Hewett, B., and Others ,. Hinscb, Caroline, and Others .. 7 10 10 3 9 5 10 10 8 11 7 10 4 444 87 231 233 Page, R., and Others Patterson, W., and Others Porter and Co., E., and Others (No. 1) .. Porter and Co., E., and Others (No. 2) .. 9 4 5 8 499 Ryburn, R. M., and Others 10 366 Tilly, Captain T. C. 7 135 Victoria College Counoil, J. R. Blair, on behalf of the 11 326 330 Wellington Harbour Board, The White, J., and Others .. 9 6

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No. 14.—Bobert A. Gunn, of Coromandel. Petitioner prays compensation for his wrongful arrest by the police at Coromandel on a charge of stealing gold in September, 1898. I am directed to report that, as petitioner does not appear to have exhausted his legal remedy, the Committee have no recommendation to make. 27th July, 1899. ____________

No. 73. —Petition of Walter Chueton, of Wanganui. Petitionee prays that the sum of £35, legacy duty wrongly paid by him to the Government, may be refunded to him. I am directed to report that the Committee are of opinion that petitioner has no claim upon the colony. ' 27th July, 1899.

No. 36.—Petition of P. A. Connolly, of Naseby. Petitioner prays that his retiring-allowance of £100 may be increased. I am directed to report that the Committee have no recommendation to make 27th July, 1899.

No. 65.—Petition of Daniel Hannan, of Levin. Petitionee prays compensation for his retirement from the Police Force of the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee recommend that this petition be referred to Government for consideration. Ist August, 1899.

No. 122.—Petition of Caroline B. Parree and 215 Others, of Wellington. Petitionees pray that the Bible may be read in the public schools of the colony. I am directed to report that, as the matter of the petition involves a question of public policy, the Committee have no recommendation to make thereon. Ist August, 1899.

No. 128.—Petition of Charity W. Gauntlett, of Wellington. Petitioner prays further compensation for the loss of her husband, who died from result of an accident when serving in the Torpedo Corps at Wellington. I am directed to report that the Committee recommend that this petition be referred to Government for favourable consideration. 2nd August, 1899.

No. 48. —Petition of P. P. Blackmoee, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that the grant of £100 awarded to him by the Commissioner as an old military officer may be increased to £200. I am directed to report that the Committee have no recommendation to make. 2nd August, 1899.

No. 352.—Petition of James Gantley, of Wellington. Petitioner prays compensation for his retirement from the Police Force of the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee have no recommendation to make. 2nd August, 1899.

No. 5. —Petition of Amos Buee, of Eoxton. Petitionee prays that he be granted a pension for services performed for successive New Zealand Governments, from the year 1840. I am directed to report that the Committee recommend that this petition be referred to Government for consideration. 4th August, 1899.

No. 84.—Petition of Isaac Buck, of Thames. Petitioner prays for a grant of land, or its equivalent, for military services in the colony. I am directed to report that, as the subject-matter of the petition involves a question of public policy, the Committee have no recommendation to make. 4th August, 1899.

No. 54.—Petition of Captain 8. A. Leech, of Westport. Petitioner prays that the reports of the Public Petitions A to L Committee made on his petitions in the years 1896 and 1897 may be given effect to. I am directed to report that, the Public Petitions A to L Committee of 1896 and 1897 having reported fully upon the subject-matter of this petition, this Committee has no further recommendation to make. 4th August, 1899.

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No. 46.—Petition of Messrs. Bdcelli and Soero, of Callao, Peru. Petitioners pray compensation for the detention of their ship " Lothair " in quarantine at Nelson. I am directed to report that, after taking some evidence, the Chairman ruled that the Standing Orders of the House had not been complied with, in that the petitioners had not signed the petition (such ruling having been upheld by the Hon. the Speaker). The Committee are of opinion that some of the allegations in the petition have been sustained, but, in the face of the Chairman's ruling, they recommend that no further action be taken on this petition. Bth August, 1899.

No. 159.—Petition of Henry Adolph, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that he be granted an old-age pension. I am directed to report that the Committee recommend that this petition be referred to Government for consideration. Bth August, 1899. ■

No. 3.—Petition of W, C. Fitzgeeald, of Wellington. Petitionee prays that the recommendations of the Public Petitions A to L Committee as set forth in paragraphs 4 and 5 of their report made last year on a similar petition from the same person be given effect to, viz. : — Paragraph 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 the Supreme Court." Paragraph 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." I am directed to report that the Committee finds from the evidence taken before it this year that the petitioner has received from the Government the sum £367, being nearly one-half of his claim —£735 7s. lid.—of last year, and has since recovered by process in the Magistrate's Court the sum of £60 (an amount included in the said £735 7s. lid.) from one George Lambert, which sum of £60 is referred to in the evidence adduced before the Committee last year as money paid through the intervention of Messrs. Skerrett and Wylie, solicitors, and Mr. Lambert to Mr. Boberts for the withdrawal of an action by Boberts against the petitioner. The Committee also finds that the petitioner suffered other losses by reason of the Supreme Court action which he successfully defended; but the petitioner will forego any claim therefor if the Committee's recommendation of last year be given effect to by the Government. Therefore, the Committee recommends the Government to pay the petitioner in accordance with their report presented to the House on the 27th September, 1898. Bth August, 1899.

Nos. 87 and 88.—Petitions of William Pateeson and Others, of Waiwera; and H. Hurley and Others, of Upper Waiwera. Petitionees pray for a grant of £750 towards erecting wharf at Waiwera. I am directed to report that the Committee recommend that these two petitions be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th August, 1899. '

No. 40.—Petition of Charles Clarke, of Auckland. Petitionee prays for a grant of land for military services. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 9th August, 1899.

No. 15. —Petition of Bobert E. Lester, of Kohukohu. Petitioner prays that land taken for a road at Kohukohu may be returned to him. No. 129.—Petition of Hokianga County Council. Petitionees pray that the request contained in foregoing petition be not acceded to; and that the grant of portion of the Kohukohu Boad already conceded to Mr. Lester be cancelled. I am directed to report that the Committee recommend that these two petitions be referred to the Government for consideration. 11th August, 1899.

Nos. 93 and 94.—Petitions of Chas. W. Buller, of Avondale Asylum, Auckland; and Caroline Hinsch and 711 Others, of Auckland. Petitioners pray that an inquiry may be held as to the detention of C. W. Buller in the Auckland Asylum. I am directed to report that the Committee are of opinion that sufficient evidence has not been produced before them to enable them to make a definite recommendation; but, considering the number of persons (713) who have signed the petitions, the Committee consider the subject-matter thereof a question for a departmental inquiry. 17th August, 1899.

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Nos. 133, 147, and 184.—Petitions of E. W. Dee and Others, of Nelson; C. A. Fawcett and Others, of Gisborne ; and H. E. Edeidge and Others, of Wanganui. Petitioners pray that merchant tailors and ready-made clothing factories be registered as separate trades. I am directed to report that the subject-matter of these three petitions being a question of public policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 17th August, 1899.

No 42.—Petition of Thomas Dollman, of Westport. Petitioner prays for a further grant, in addition to the sum of £30 already awarded to him, for services as a naval officer. I am directed to report that, as the departmental report upon the petition states that petitioner would appear to be entitled to a further grant of at least £10, the Committee recommend that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 17th August, 1899.

Nos. 224, 225, and 255.—Petitions of J. Ford and Others, of Christchurch; J. H. Glasson, of Christchurch ; and J. Ford and Others, of Christchurch. Petitioners pray that the Auctioneers Act Amendment Bill be not made law. I am directed to report that, as the Bill in question is now before the House of Bepresentatives, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 22nd August, 1899.

No. 13. —Petition of John Hislop and Others, of Dunedin. Petitioners pray that the postal rates for conveyance of jewellery within the colony be revised. I am directed to report that, as it appears by the departmental report that some of the grievances set forth in the petition have been already redressed, the Committee recommend that it be referred to the Government for consideration. 23rd August, 1899.

No. 181. —Petition of Norman Cole Bakek and Others, of Wairamarama. Petitioners pray for a Government grant of £250 towards the completion of the Tuakau Boad. I am directed to report that the Committee are of opinion this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 23rd August, 1899.

No. 199.—Petition of Heney B. Huddleston, of Blenheim. Petitioner prays for redress as against the Survey Department. I am directed to report that the Committee are of opinion that the petition should be referred to the Government with the view that the prayer thereof may be given effect to. 23rd August, 1899.

No. 185.—Petition of W. F. Harding and Others, of Castlepoint. Petitionees pray that the interest on loans from the Advances to Settlers Department may be reduced from 5 to 4 per centum. I am directed to report that, as the subject-matter of the petition involves a question of public policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make thereon. 23rd August, 1899.

Nos. 145, 194, 231, 232, and 281 (all similar). — Petitions of Lane and Brown, of Totara North; G. A. Campbell and others, of Wanganui; E. Porter and Co. and others, of Auckland ; A. B. Donald and others, of Auckland; T. and S. Morrin and Others, of Auckland. Petitionees pray that materials used in the construction of ships be admitted in the colony duty-free. 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. 29th August, 1899.

No. 163. —Petition of Bey. W. Bannerman, of Dunedin. Petitioner prays that the Deceased Husband's Brother Marriage Bill be rejected by the House. I am directed to report that this Bill is now before the House, and that the Committee has therefore no recommendation to make. 29th August, 1899.

No. 245.—Petition of W. Gilpin and 93 Others. Petitionees pray for the mitigation of the sentences passed upon the boys Willis and Ireland at Featherston. I am directed to report that this Committee has no recommendation to make. sth September, 1899.

No. 132.—Petition of William L. Falconer, of Masterton. Petitionee prays for inquiry into the circumstances under which a fine of £25 was imposed upon him for failing to keep down the rabbits on his farm. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Agricultural, Pastoral, and Stock Committee. sth September, 1899.

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"'_;_'_: No. 179.—Petition of Herman Beaun, of Wellington. '* Petitioner prays for compensation for injuries received by him, while in the service of the Post and-Telegraph Department. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, petitioner has no claim against the colony; " : • ' sth September, 1899. : "- : ' ■■'"■- :; ■,

No. 229.—Petition of Charles D. Evans, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that he be granted an old-age pension. -"■- ; lam directed to report that this Committee has no recommendation to make. , 6th September, 1899.

Nos. 330, 345, 346, 347, 319, 362, 363, 367, and 305 (all similar).—Petitions of J. White and 61 Others, of Kakahu Point; Bey. T. Noeeie and 35 Others, of Papakura; J. Donald and 36 Others, of Christchurch; James Cleland and 40 Others, of Belfast; W. J. Comrie and 53 Others, of Hastings ; M. Jones and 34 Others, of Waikino; D. Armstrong and 32 Others, of ■".■;"■. Taylorville; C. McKenzie and 114 Others, of Geraldine; and Bey. J. Dickson and Others, of Temuka. ....... Petitionees pray for the suppression of gambling. ■:■. I.am directed to report that the prayer of the petitions involves a question of public policy, and that the Committee has, therefore, no recommendation to make. 6th September, 1899. ' :.:...

No, 240.—Petition of Geoege Fishee, of Wellington. Petitionee prays that the sum of £100 be refunded on account of the loss sustained by the owners of the barque " Lothair " owing to the detention of the vessel in quarantine at the Port of Nelson. '.';'. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 6th September, 1899. _

No. 191.—Petition of D. Banks, of Ashley. Petitioner prays for an inquiry into the circumstances under which certain sheep were seized by the police as having been stolen prior to their purchase by petitioner. I have theTtonour to report that this Committee has no recommendation to make. 12th September, 1899.

No. 298.—Petition of Mrs. I. A. E. Gascoyne, of Nelson, Petitioner prays that Major F. J. W. Gascoyne be granted a pension in accordance with his military rank and services. ■■ :; lam directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 12th September, 1899.

No. 174. —Petition of Edwin Bezae, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that the sum of £4 be paid to him for services rendered to the Defence Department, as Drill-Instructor at Blenheim. . I am directed; to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioner has no claim against the colony. .... ■ . 12th September, 1899.

utaioT ' No. 106.—Petition of A. Cochran and 119 Others, of Waikumete. Petitionees pray that (1) the sum of £300, for the improvement and extension of the New LynnHuia Boad; and (2) the further sum of £300 for building bridges and metalling the road from Kelly's Bridge to the Waikumete Bailway-station, be placed upon the estimates. „...I.am directed to report that this Committee recommends the Government to give effect to the report of the Chief Surveyor, Auckland, upon the prayer of this petition. 12th September, 1899.

No. 59.—Petition of E. A. Blackbqurn and 68 Others, of Waikumete. Petitioners pray that the sum of £500, for the improvement of the Waikumete-West Coast Boad, be placed upon the estimates. ' I am directed to report that this Committee recommends the Government to give effect to the report of the Chief Surveyor, Auckland, upon the prayer of this petition. 12th September, 1899.

No. 203. —Petition of Edward Hutchings and Others, of Wellington. Petitioners pray that they may receive consideration for military services rendered to the colony. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioners are entitled to a sum of £20 each by way of refund of moneys actually paid out of pocket, at the time the members of the Wellington Defence Force, at their own expense, made their way to the front. 15th September, 1899. .

No. 317.—Petition of James Gibson, of Masterton. ..,., Petitionee prays that, having resided in the colony since 1862, he be granted 40 acres of land. ;,,;.>...! am. directed to report that, in. the opinion of the Committee, petitioner has no claim against the colony. .. ~...., .'.-... ....,.■ 15th September, 1899. ..■..:,,....-..., ..:

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No.- 213.—Petition -Of Thomas Grant, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that his old-age-pension be increased from £9 to £18 per annum. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. ..... 15th. September,. 189.9. . -

Nos. 398 and 373 (similar). —Petitions of A. M. Alexander and 33 Others, ,of Mangaweka; and Bey. J. Macdonald and 74 Others. Petitioners pray for the suppression of gambling. .. lam directed to report that, as the prayer of these petitions involves a question ■of public policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 19th-September, 1899. . , -- .- ■■ -~ , .

No. 91.—Petition of James Herring, of Kumara. Petitionee prays that the sum of £116-4»r be paid to him—by way of compensation for injuries sustained by his wife and two children through being knocked down,by a bolting horse, the property of the-Government. I am directed to report that this Committee, being of opinion that the petitioner, has not exhausted his legal remedies, has no recommendation to make. 19th September, 1899. -..'. : '.. „.. . „/. '

No. 405.—Petition of Charles Haddon, of Wellington. <" Petitionee prays for a grant of land for military services rendered during the Maori war. I am directed to report that the Committee, having inquired into the facts of this case, find that the petitioner is sixty-eight years of age; that he has been absent from the colony since the year 1862—a.period of thirty-seven years; and that he returned only eleven weeks ago. The Committee are of opinion, therefore, that petitioner has no claim against the colony, but they recommend the Government to pay his passage-money back to Sydney. 19th September, 1899. ■

No. 289.—Petition of Christopher P. Gardner, of Herekino. Petitionee prays that immediately upon his becoming a naturalised British subject he be granted an old-age pension. I am directed to report that, as a Bill dealing with the subject-matter of this petition is now before the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 21st September, 1899. . ■. - -

Nos.'2ol, 202, 215, 235 (similar). —Petitions of D. Kenealy, of Kumara; W. Hunter, of Wellington; B. Brady, of Brisbane; and Stephen Home, of Auckland. Petitionees pray for a grant of land for military services rendered. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 7 29th September, 1899. "

No. 401. —Petition of Mary Fairchild, of Wellington. Petitionee prays for further compensation for the death of her husband, the late Captain Fairchild, caused by an accident while he was carrying out his duties in the Government service. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 3rd October, 1899. -

No. 178.—Petition of Thomas Culling and Others, of Dunedin. ' J : Petitionees pray for compensation for damage done to the property of the St. Kilda Borough Council by the breaking in of the sea. ,'.-.'/ I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 3rd October, 1899. " ..' . .'. \ " :

No. 375.—Petition of H. E. Crofts, of Auckland. Petitionee prays for compensation for loss of office in the Institution for Deaf-mutes at Sumner. .lam directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioner has no claim against the colony. , - -..'.- .--..' 3rd October, 1899. , . . .:".-:

Nos. 151 and 212.—Petitions of D. Goldie and 641 Others, of Auckland; and J. Bernach . and Others, of Auckland. ■Petitionees pray that Captain T. C. Tilly be retained in the position of Examiner of .Masters:-arid Mates at Auckland. . ■ : . n ~->- lam directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. ■• :■" 3rd October, 1899. '. . . ,-:■..-:■

, No. 366.—Petition of T.C. Tilly, of Auckland. Petitioner prays for compensation for loss of office as Examiner of Masters and Mates at Auckland. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioner is entitled to the sum of £123 19s. Id.,.. Much was..placed on. the estimates ia 1894, but was .not.received by petitioner owing to his reappointment in that year. •; i - 3rd October, 1899.

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No. 335.—Petition of Henry Ellis, of Barotonga. Petitioner prays for redress on account of alleged false imprisonment by a Native Court at Barotonga. I am directed to report that this Committee, being of the opinion that petitioner has not exhausted his legal remedies, has no recommendation to make. sth October, 1899.

No. 290.—Petition of Emma M. Alpoed, of Devonport, Auckland. Petitioner prays for compensation for the death of her husband, a member of the Permanent Militia. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. sth October, 1899.

No. 292.—Petition of George Heighton, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that he may be granted compensation for loss of office as caretaker of Motuihi Island, or for suitable employment. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. sth October, 1899. .

No. 327.—Petition of W. Burr and 3 Others, of Hokianga. Petitionees pray that the expenses incurred by the Hokianga County Council in certain prosecutions instituted by them under the Dog Begistration Act be refunded by the Government. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. sth October, 1899.

No. 394.—Petition of E. Johnson and 15 Others, of Leeston. Petitioners pray that the use of drag-nets in Lake Ellesmere be prohibited. I am directed to report that this Committee, at the request of the member for the district, recommends the petition to the urgent and favourable consideration of the Government. sth October, 1899.

No. 433.—Petition of Thomas Doig, of Biccarton. Petitionee prays for redress of certain grievances in connection with the imprisonment of his son upon an order under " The Destitute Persons Act, 1894." I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. sth October, 1899.

Nos. 144, Petitions of H. Lane and Others, Opua; 233, E. Porter and Others, Auckland ; 234, A. B. Donald and Others, Auckland; 280, T. and S. Moerin (Limited), Auckland; 331, G. A. Campbell and Others, Wanganui (all similar). Petitioners pray—(l) That all oil-engines (marine) under twenty-brake horse-power be allowed to run absolutely without restriction; (2) that all oil-engines of a larger power be run by men who have passed a sufficient examination on the working of oil-engines alone, irrespective of steampower ; (3) that a competent Examiner be forthwith appointed to conduct such examinations ; (4) that all persons who can satisfy such Examiner that they have successfully worked and operated marine oil-engines prior to Ist June, 1899, be granted certificates of service available for use both within restricted limits and also at sea, but only for engines used as an auxiliary power in vessels fully equipped as sailing-ships. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the evidence taken in connection with these petitions should be printed ; but, as a Bill dealing with the subject-matter involved is now before the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 10th October, 1899. (Vide Appendix 1.-la.)

No. 295.—Petition of James Drumm and Others, of Greymouth. Petitionees pray that merchant tailors and clothing-factories be registered as separate trades. 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. 11th October, 1899. No. 263.—Petition of E. L. Clack, of Auckland. Petitionee prays that inquiry be made into certain matters connected with the dissolution of a firm of which he was a member. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 11th October, 1899.

No. 453.—Petition of Helen Fraser, of Glenorchy. Petitioner prays that the House will cause accounts to be rendered to her in connection with the sale of her property at Queenstown by order of the Begistrar of the Supreme Court. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 11th October, 1899.

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No. 326. —Petition of the Harbour Boaed of Wellington. Petitioner prays (1) that the House will so amend "The Harbours Act, 1878," that the Board may obtain payment of storage-charges upon goods received on account of the Government of New Zealand or any department thereof; and also (2) that the sum of £308 19s. lid., being the amount which petitioner claims to have earned and charged for storage as aforesaid, be placed upon the estimates. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government, with a recommendation that legislation be introduced with a view to amending the Harbours Act in the direction indicated by the petition ; and, in respect of the second clause of the prayer of petitioner, I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. (Vide also Legislative Council Paper No. 9.) 11th October, 1899.

No. 406.—Petition of Beyant Bailey and Others, of Auckland. Petitionees pray for alteration in the regulations affecting vessels of less than 35 tons register trading in the Auckland District. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 17th October, 1899.

No. 103.—Petition of Thomas Baeeon, of Auckland. Petitioner prays for compensation for injuries sustained during the Maori War. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 17th October, 1899.

No. 369.—Petition of F. Downard and Others, of Auckland. Petitionees pray that restrictions be imposed upon trawling in the Hauraki Gulf. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 17th October, 1899.

Nos. 422, 426, 437, 454, 462, and 479 (all similar).—Petitions of A. J. McPherson and Others, of Southbridge; J. Elmslie and Others, of Christchurch; B. Ewan and Others, of Otahuhu; A. Blake and Others, of Halcombe; G. C. Ellis and Others, of Kingsdown; J. L. Christensen and Others, of Mayfield. Petitionees pray that the House will pass some measure for the suppression of gambling. I am directed to report that, as the prayer of these petitions involves a question of public policy, the Committee has no recommendation to* make. 17th October, 1899.

No. 348.—Potition of A. W. Edwards and Another, of Hokianga. Petitionees pray that the costs paid by them in connection with the prosecution instituted against them under the Arms Act be refunded. I am directed to report that, in view of the fact that His Excellency has been pleased to grant petitioners a free pardon in respect of the sentences imposed upon them in these cases, the Committee recommends that the costs paid by them be refunded. 17th October, 1899.

No. 444.—Petition of Bobert Page and Others, of Hokianga. Petitioners pray that the costs paid by G. E. Hedger, J. D. Martin, and B. Goldsworthy in connection with certain prosecutions instituted against them under the Arms Act be refunded. I am directed to report that, in view of the fact that His Excellency the Governor has been pleased to grant the defendants a free pardon in respect of the sentence imposed upon them in these cases, the Committee recommends that the costs paid by them be refunded. 17th October, 1899.

No. 476.—Petition of J. M. Douglass and Others, of Woolston. Petitioners pray that the sum of £200 be placed upon the estimates for the reconstruction and remetalling of the Ferry-bridge Boad, Woolston. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 17th October, 1899.

No. 50. —Petition of Eenest F. Clack, of Dunedin. Petitionee prays for an inquiry into the cause of his dismissal from the construction branch of the Telegraph Department. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 17th October, 1899. 2—l. 1.

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Nos. 486, 488, 499, and 502.—Petitions of S. W. Enteican and Others, of Westport; Bey. G. B. Inglis and Others, of Ashburton; B. M. Byburn and Others, of Wanganui; and J. Hendeick and Others, of Tauranga. Petitionees pray for the suppression of gambling. I have the honour to report that, as the prayer of the petitions involves a question of public policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 17th October, 1899. --, . .- :

No. 490.—Petition of W. Dawson and Others, of Kaukapakapa. Petitionees pray for the passing of a Bill to appoint scrutineers for local-option polls. I am directed to report that, a Bill dealing with the subject-matter of this petition having already been passed by the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 17th October, 1899.

No. 461.—Petition of Basil Hewett and Others, of Waimai. Petitionees pray that a Bill, submitting certain questions to the electors of the colony, be passed by the House. 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. 17th October, 1899.

No. 424.—Petition of W. C. Feaser and Others, of Auckland. Petitionees pray for the passing of the Local Government Voting Beform Bill. I am directed to report that, as this Bill has already been passed by the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 17th October, 1899.

Nos. 34 and 445.—Petitions of W. E. Gibson and Others, of Auckland, and F. H. Manning and Others, of Auckland. Petitionees pray for an inquiry into certain matters connected with the Avondale Lunatic Asylum, Auckland. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 17th October, 1899.

No. 489.—Petition of Isabella Donne Hamlin, of Auckland. Petitioner prays for compensation for the death of her husband, an interpreter in the service of the Native Land Court. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 19th October, 1899. ,

No. 485.—Petition of W. Hallett and Others, of Whangamomona. Petitioners pray for aid to establish a school at Whangamomona, Taranaki. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 19th October, 1899. '

Nos. 188 and 460.—Petitions of John Fitzpateick (Nos. 1 and 2), of Wairoa. Petitionee prays that he be granted an old-age pension. 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. 19th October, 1899.

No. 139.—Petition of Timothy Hayes, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that he be granted an old-age pension. . 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. 19th October, 1899.

No. 165. —Petition of John Buckland, of Auckland. Petitioner alleges that a remission certificate, which had been charged by order of the Supreme Court in his favour, was wrongfully handed over by the Treasury to the Official Assignee, Auckland. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 19th October, 1899.

No. 505.—Petition of Kate M. Butchee and Others, of Waimate. Petitioners pray that the House will adopt measures for the suppression of gambling. 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. 19th October, 1899.

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No. 276. —Petition of Theresa Jane Garraed, of Grey Street, Auckland. Petitionee prays for payment of £9 in connection with the old-age pension, which she alleges has been wrongfully withheld. I am directed to report that the Committee recommend that this petition be referred to the Government. 21st October, 1899.

No. 304.—Petition of D. Goldie and 8 Others, of Ngaruawahia. Petitionee prays that the Government will forego certain claims in connection with a bridgecontract at Ngaruawahia. I am directed to report that the Committee recommend that this petition be referred to the Government. 21st October, 1899.

No. 399.—Petition of J. A. N. Geeensill and Another, of Picton. Petitionees pray for refund of £25, forfeit-money in connection with the Havelock-Pelorus Sound mail«-contract. I am directed to report that the Committee recommend that this petition be referred to the Government. 21st October, 1899.

No. 504. —Petition of William Heney Claeke, of Whakarewarewa, Botorua. Petitionee prays for a grant of land in connection with military services. I am directed to report that the Committee recommend that this petition be referred to the Government. 21st October, 1899.

No. 514.—Petition of Johanna James and 24 Others, of Brunnerton. Petitionees pray for the readministration of certain portion of the Brunner Disaster Fund. I am directed to report that the Committee recommend that this petition be referred to the Government. 21st October, 1899.

Nos. 78 and 465.—Petitions of W. B. Edwards and Thomas Linteen. I am directed to report that, when under consideration by your Committee, the petitions of W. B. Edwards and Thomas Lintern were withdrawn. 21st October, 1899. .

Nos. 512, 393, and 380 (1898). —Petitions of Joseph Feanich, H. yon Blaeembeeg, and F. W. Boynton. I am directed to report that, having duly considered the facts in connection with the above petitions, your Committee have in each case no recommendation to make. 21st October, 1899.

Nos. 90, 195, and 196, 316, 495, 517, 127, 143, 312 of 1897, 32, and 335.—Petitions of B. J. Feltus, Charles Brown, Pieece Lynch, J. Dilwoeth and Others, Sir Walter Bullee, M. Caeey, John Bell, Heney Henderson, and Henry Ellis. I am directed to report upon the above petitions that, owing to the inadequacy of the time which has been at the disposal of your Committee, it has not been found possible to bestow upon them due consideration. It is therefore recommended that they be referred to next Parliament. 21st October, 1899.

No. 487.—Petition of E. Carrigan and Others, Wellington. Petitioners pray —(1.) That they be awarded such sum of money as may compensate them for losses which they state they have sustained through the taking of their land in the City of Wellington under the provisions of " The Wellington Harbour Board Beclamation and Empowering Act, 1898." (2.) That the House will take steps to secure justice for petitioners. I am directed to report —(1.) Upon the first clause of the prayer the Committee has no recommendation to make. (2.) As to the second clause : Prom evidence Before the Committee, it appears that " The Wellington Harbour Board Beclamation and Empowering Act, 1898," has resulted in hardship to the petitioners, and the Committee therefore recommends the Government to make full inquiry, with a view to affording the petitioners relief. 23rd October, 1899.

No. 135.—Petition of J. B. Blair, Wellington. Petitionee prays that the Mount Cook Beserve, Wellington, be vested in the Council of the Victoria College as a site for the college. I am directed to report that, as a Bill dealing with the subject-matter of this petition is before the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 23rd October, 1899.

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Final Ebpoet. The Public Petitions A to L Committee have the honour to report that they have this day agreed to the following resolution: " That this Committee desires to place on record its appreciation of the attention, zeal, and ability displayed by the Chairman (Mr. Joyce, member for Lyttelton) in the conduct of its business during the curreat session."

Approximate Cost of Paper. —Preparation, not given; printing (1,325 copies), £8 6s. 6d.

By Authority: John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington.—lB99. Price 6Vi]