INDIAN FAMINE (PROPOSED CONTRIBUTION FROM CONSOLIDATED FUND TOWARDS THE RELIEF OF SUFFERERS BY).

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1900 Session I, H-30a

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1900. NEW ZEALAND.

INDIAN FAMINE (PROPOSED CONTRIBUTION FROM CONSOLIDATED FUND TOWARDS THE RELIEF OF SUFFERERS BY).

Laid upon the Table of both Houses of the General Assembly by Leave.

Telegram from the Pbbmibe to all the Members of the General Assembly, dated sth May, 1900, relative to granting Aid to the Sufferers by Famine in India. Some little time ago the Viceroy of India appealed to this colony for practical sympathy for the four millions and a half famine-stricken people in India. In asking for the opinion of members of the Legislature in respect to granting aid to the sufferers by the conflagration at Ottawa, several members suggested that aid should be sent .from the Consolidated Fund to the famine-stricken in India. The Government have therefore determined to ascertain the views of honourable members as to whether or not such assistance should be given. Will you kindly reply, and state your views on the question. Eeply by memo. E. J. Seddon.

Eeplies from Members of the House of Kepresentattves. The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Port Chalmers, Bth May, 1900. Be Indian famine : If Government decide to contribute, I shall support the vote, although it is rather late. Many colonists have already subscribed to that object, and a large sum has been raised. The principle of assisting from consolidated revenue distress of a public character has the merit of compelling all to contribute according to their means, and saves a vast amount of trouble in collecting subscriptions privately. E. G. Allen.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Dunedin North, 7th May, 1900. Be Indian famine : Two thousand three hundred pounds is already subscribed in Dunedin, and this method, in my opinion, is better and nobler than the easier plan of Government grant. I would therefore urge you to encourage local subscriptions, inasmuch as this has been begun, and needs only an effort to finish and make successful. James Allen.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Dunedin, 7th May, 1900. The fact that already about sixteen times the population of New Zealand are already affected by the famine, and that that number is likely to be greatly increased, is sufficient proof that the cause is worthy of help. The people of our colony have shown by their ready and liberal subscriptions to the patriotic and other funds that they are in sympathy with any movement for the purpose of alleviating the sufferings of their fellows. Great numbers, however, have given to the full extent that their resources will permit, while some, who could better afford, have not responded to appeals made, and are not likely to for this object. These can only be reached by taxation. I think for above reasons that a sum should be sent from Consolidated Fund for this object, as well as for the sufferers by fire at Ottawa. J. F. Arnold.

Sir,— Wellington, 7th May, 1900. In reply to your telegraphed memorandum, which reached me to-day, I fully share the opinion of the Government that the terrible calamity which has overtaken our fellow-subjects in India makes an urgent call upon our benevolence, and, in my opinion, the urgency is far greater than in the Canadian case ; but I regret to be unable in the one case, as in the other, to approve of the relief being granted out of the Consolidated Fund. It seems to me that Parliament, as trustees for the colony, cannot use the public money for extra colonial benevolence without being guilty of a breach of trust. I would therefore again urge that the Government do its utmost to stimulate private generosity, instead of resorting to the public funds. It is unfortunately certain that private subscriptions which have already realised almost as much for the Indian famine as the Government has allocated for the Ottawa fire will be not stimulated, but checked, if the very laudable object which the Government has in view, is carried out in the manner you suggest. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. A. B. Atkinson.

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The Right Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Dunedin, 7th May, 1900. Indian famine : Yes ; if State contributions to be made for anything, it should be for that. A. R. Baeclay.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Eae's Junction, Bth May, 1900. I approve of assistance being given to the famine-stricken people in India, and consider the case urgent. Jambs Bennet.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Avondale, 12th May, 1900. Be contributions to the Indian Famine Belief Fund : I am in favour of Government sending reasonable contributions in suitable breadstuff from the colony, if arrangements for conveyance can be made. J. Bollard.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Eangiora, 7th May, 1900. Favour a contribution being sent to famine-stricken in India. The people of New Zealand have plenty, and the heart to send assistance. D. Buddo, Fernside.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Mosgiel, 7th May, 1900. Sorry I was away when your wire arrived. lam heartily in favour of sending a contribution from the consolidated revenue in aid of the Indian Famine Belief Fund. W. Carncross.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Christchurch, 7th May, 1900. Proposal to send relief to sufferers in India by famine has my heartiest support. * W. W. Collins.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Westport, sth May, 1900. My views as expressed to you in regard to assistance being given to sufferers in Canada are exactly m accord with the requirements of our Indian subjects. As before intimated, I say that assistance should be given by the Government, when in a position to do so, to any one or more parts of our Empire when necessity requires it.. Jas. Colvin.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Gore, 7th May, 1900. Under existing circumstances, having given to Canada you should give to India; the voluntary contributions being large, the whole colony should now stand in for this. Duncan.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Christchurch, 7th May, 1900. I am in hearty accord with the proposal of the Government, acting on the suggestion of several honourable members, to grant aid from the Consolidated Fund to the sufferers by famine in India. By this plan we give relief as a people to suffering fellow-bemgs, and we shall be the better as a people for the act. H. G. Ell.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Wellington, 9th May, 1900. - I heartily approve Government's proposal to grant substantial contribution from public purse to alleviate sufferings from famine in India. W. H. Field.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Greymouth, Bth May, 1900. Re Indian famine and Ottawa fire : As the British dominions are more than ever federated into a nation, with one heart-beat, and one well-defined conception of ascendency of race, there can be but one feeling, one consideration, in the mind of every true patriot—the feeling of affection and duty in any case of national calamity. The Government will therefore have my full and loyal support in any step they may determine to take. George Fisher.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Woodbury, 7th May, 1900. Your memorandum did not reach me in time to reply last Saturday. You will have ascertained my views on the famine question by my wire, which must have crossed yours. The reason I suggested sending produce was that I believe the fat man in India profits as much by the colony sending cash as the poor famine-stricken people. Doubtless scores are large holders of food-supplies in India to-day, with a view to making a profit at the expense of the starving population. However, you have my support in sending relief in any form you think best. F. E. Flatman.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Auckland, 7th May, 1900. Eeplyinq to the Premier's telegram re Indian Famine Fund, I think we are just as fully justified in contributing as to the Ottawa fire, and will support. Gbo. Fowlds.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Hastings, 6th May, 1900. He famine subscription : As a general principle, there is no better method of giving colonial financial assistance to any deserving cause than by the Government drawing from the consolidated funds ; it is then strictly for and on behalf of the people, as every one in proportion to his means subscribes. In the present instance, however, speaking for Hawke's Bay, the Government is a little late, as this district has already subscribed most liberally (two subscriptions alone, that of Archdeacon Williams and Mr. Douglas McLean, totalling four hundred pounds), and more will be forthcoming. Nevertheless, I cannot help thinking that, with such an unprecedented and superfluous surplus for the year in hand, general approval would be given should the Government reduce that surplus by assisting the distressed of India, Alfred L. D, Frasek.

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Sib,— Wellington Club, N.Z., sth May, 1900. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your telegraphic memorandum of this date. The reason I alleged for supporting your proposal to give practical proof of the sympathy of the people of the colony for the sufferers by the recent conflagration at Ottawa apply with equal force in regard to the terrible straits of the famishing millions in India. To send, as some persons suggest, a shipload of produce would for obvious reasons be of no service. Money is what is needed. Then, let money be sent at once on behalf of the colony. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. W. Fbaseb, M.H.E.

The Eight Hon. E. J. Seddon, Wellington. Invercargill, 7th May, 1900. I coNsiDEB that it would be a philanthropic act on the part of the Government to grant pecuniary assistance to the famine-stricken people of India. The people of this colony sympathise with the starving millions in another part of the Empire, and will, I feel confident, approve of the action of the Government in endeavouring to alleviate the sufferings of our fellowmen. M. GILFEDDEB.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Nelson, sth May, 1900. While, as a rule, strongly opposed to expenditure from Consolidated Fund without appropriation by Parliament as unconstitutional and improper, yet, because of urgent necessity for immediate help to millions of fellow-creatures, and the unprecedentedly satisfactory and financial condition of our own colony disclosed by the Public Accounts, also in view of the many recent demands upon the patriotism and philanthrophy of the people in their private capacity, which render the circumstances extremely exceptional, I feel justified, on behalf of my constituents and the colony, in agreeing by my vote to assist in ratifying the action of the Government for making a reasonable contribution towards relieving the terrible distress in India and Ottawa caused by famine and fire. John Gbaham.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Greymouth, sth May, 1900. Be Indian famine : Your telegram only just received, as I have been absent in Hokitika all day. Must cordially support action of Cabinet in giving substantial sum out of Consolidated Fund for relief of sufferers, which is in accord with my views already expressed by telegraph to you. A. E. Guinness.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Woodville, 7th May, 1900. Sib, —Were it not a matter involving life and death to millions of human beings, I would say " No," until Parliament could debate the matter and decide in the usual constitutional way; but necessity knows no law, and that impulse which would save our fellow-beings from death by famine cannot but meet with the approval of the people of New Zealand, and I therefore say " Yes." "C. Hall.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Invercargill, 7th May, 1900. In view of the fact that the public has already taken up this matter in every part of the colony, and funds are being subscribed, I do not think it necessary to go further in the direction indicated. J. A. Hanan.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Eakaia, 7th May, 1900. Eeply to urgent memorandum, I think Indian famine more urgent than Ottawa conflagration, and hope the colony will send assistance. Eecommend Government to initiate public subscriptions to increase the fund. Many people would give in kind. C. A. C. Haedy.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Morrinsville, 10th May, 1900. Yes, by all means, the Legislature ought to give practical sympathy in the shape of a vote from the Consolidated Fund. The Imperial practical sympathy is sufficient to guide us. The sufferers are subjects of Her Majesty the Queen. Colour should not be a bar, or should not prejudice our action. The native princes of India have always shown their loyalty and great desire to uphold the Queen's name : Note their action re Transvaal war. New Zealand cannot but, under the circumstances, stand in the cause of humanity. It is her duty. Circumstances are such as to warrant your Government to act on behalf of the people of New Zealand. We can never tell when we might need aid in some form or other. Notwithstanding the favourable conditions of this colony as far as climate is concerned, there might be other forms of disaster that might fall on New Zealand. The action of New Zealand in this case, as well as in the Ottawa catastrophe, is one of the best advertisements the colony could make. Hone Heke.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Auckland, 7th May, 1900. " Indian famine: Am not in favour of grant from Consolidated Fund. Think matter better left to private subscriptions, which have been already started. Object strongly to being continually asked for opinions, without being given any information. Your wire alludes to communications received from Indian Government. We know nothing of them. W. H. Hebeies.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Masterton, 7th May, 1900. I believe the case of India far more urgent than that of Canada. New Zealand's contributions should be exemplary, and, as far as colony can afford, commensurate with the magnitude of the terrible crisis through which India is passing. Consider England wealthiest country in the world,

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and her dependencies morally guilty of murder if they allow women and children of a conquered race to perish by starvation. I feel assured the colony will heartily support Government in sending handsome contribution. • A. W. Hogg.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Carterton, 7th May, 1900. In accordance with previously expressed opinion, I am heartily in favour of sending a sum of money to help feed starving people in India. In all national crises it is my opinion the colony should vote money from Consolidated Fund, and not leave it to individual efforts, as when the latter is the case the selfish escape entirely. J. T. M. Hobnsby.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Mangonui, sth May, 1900. I undeestood your last appeal was on behalf of sufferers through fire in Canada, to which I willingly assented. This appeal on behalf of Indian famine should, I think, stand over till Parliament meets. lam agreeable to whatever you think best, however. Eobbbt M. Houston.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Wellington, 7th May, 1900. Be aid to India. Judging by your recently reported utterances, the Government has collected a large sum of money from the taxpayers of the colony. The Consolidated Fund should therefore be able to stand the strain. By the Viceroy's appeal, and the sickening frequency of the famine's recurrence, the Indian Government cannot feed its starving millions. Humanity alone, and not indorsement of present-day Imperialistic ideals, impels me, without at present inquiring too closely into the causes, to reply, " Let us help the starving." John Hutcheson.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Waiuku, Bth May, 1900. Whakahoki ito waea mate tono a nga tangata o inia mote tahi moni hei awhina i to ratou mate a mo runga i tana tono ka waiho eau mau c whakaaro. H. Kaihau.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. (Translation.) Eeplying to your wire about the Indian famine, and about some money to aid them in their calamity, I leave the matter to your discretion. H. Kaihau.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Ohaupo, 7th May, 1900. Be aid to famine-stricken people in India : I can only send a similar reply to that which I did to former wire re contribution to Canada, only I think the famine the most needful of assistance. If Government are in a position to send assistance, shall not oppose it as far as my vote is concerned. J. W. Lang.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Lyttelton, 7th May, 1900. Eeplying to your telegram of Saturday, I will heartily support your proposal to send relief from us as a people to the famine-stricken people of India, in any amount up to ten thousand pounds, and the sooner sent the better. Geo. Laueenson.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Auckland, 7th May, 1900. I think, if finances stand strain, a substantial sum should be sent in response to appeal from Viceroy, India. F. Lawey.

Sib,— Christchurch, 7th May, 1900. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your two telegrams relative to fire in Canada and the famine in India. On neither question have I any opinion to offer. During the recess private members either possess or do not possess rights and responsibilities in connection with the expenditure of public moneys. Custom in the past has supported the latter, while your telegrams uphold the former assumption. At the proper time and in the proper place I shall be prepared to discuss the question raised by this divergence, and, if necessary, to assist in formulating a scheme embodying the circumstances and conditions under which private members may be called upon to sanction expenditure during the recess. Upon the merits of any such scheme I offer no opinion. But I hold that it is not for any Ministry to decide whether and when such sanction shall be sought. If I possess the right to be consulted, its exercise must be regulated by something more definite than the caprice of a Minister. Under these circumstances, I trust that my refusal to answer your questions will not be attributed to a lack of courtesy or to the want of interest in the questions themselves. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Chaeles Lewis.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Mangere, Bth May, 1900. I will offer no objection to a reasonable sum being taken from the Consolidated Fund for the purpose of the Indian famine, though, with our rapidly increasing public debt and our many wants, I should have preferred that assistance should have been given without interfering with the public purse. W. F. Massey.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Auckland, 11th May, 1900. Be Indian famine : I would suggest that if Government decide on sending assistance that it should take the form of breadstuff's, the export of which would relieve the market here, while they would probably be more useful than their equivalent in cash to the famine-stricken people. W. F. Massey.

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The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Hawera, 7th May, 1900. Be Indian famine : I am in sympathy of giving assistance from the Consolidated Fund. Felix McGuibb.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Doyleston, 7th May, 1900. Fob the famine of 1886 New Zealand liberally responded. The present famine is quite as bad, and we are better able to contribute. Whatever you in your wisdom, with your knowledge of our financial position, think fit to give, I will loyally support you. John McLachlan.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Eangiora, 7th May, 1900. Be extending relief to Indian famine : The deplorable condition of the people of India strongly appeals to our practical sympathy. By all means send relief from Consolidated Fund. E. Meredith.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Dunedin, 7th May, 1900. My previous wire explained my views ; but seeing precedent established by Canadian grant, think Famine Fund equally deserving. J. A. Millae.

The Right Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Blenheim, 7th May, 1900. In my opinion, the famine in India is a case where the colony ought to assist collectively through the consolidated revenue, and individually to whatever extent we can afford. I will support any resolution brought forward in the House to confirm what Cabinet in their wisdom may decide upon doing to assist in alleviating such widespread distress. C. H. Mills.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Hellensville, Bth May, 1900. Aid to the famine district of India I regard as of more importance than of any other subject that has claimed your attention. I would that Parliament had been summoned, and the grants made in constitutional form ; but I could not, in the face of the appalling sufferings endured by those starving people, find it in my heart to censure your sending up to ten thousand pounds. E. Monk.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Dunedin, 7th May, 1900. Be famine in India : I approve of voting the same amount as was passed by Cabinet for the disaster in Canada. Surely we can spare a little out of our abundance for the starving millions in India. Aethue Moebison.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Auckland, 7th May, 1900. I quite think that the dreadful visitation of famine which is now affecting our fellow-subjects in India should arouse our charitable instincts to the highest degree. As there is already a fund started here for the object, would it not be well to supplement that fund by a sum from the public Exchequer, instead of possibly closing up the springs of individual charity by sending an independent amount direct ? W. J. Napiee.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Auckland, 6th May, 1900. In regard to view New Zealand contributing to the millions of sufferers from the famine now raging in India, I desire to say that the people of that country are in no sense colonials, are not of our flesh and blood, and I consequently think that the task of relieving the sufferers from the Indian famine should rest with the Imperial Government. Our means are limited, and our generosity should be measured by our means. G. Maueice O'Eoeke, Speaker.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Auckland, sth May, 1900. Be Indian famine : I consider the Empire as one vast people now, and the misfortunes of one part of the Empire are the misfortunes of us all, and in such cases I consider it the highest statesmanship for all the other portions of the Empire to aid the affected portion. Therefore I think that New Zealand as a colony should aid India—that is a Government grant should be given from the funds of the colony. This will not deter those generous people who will also contribute privately. I think this principle is the true fundamental principle of Imperial federation. Jackson Palmes.

The Right Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Seacliff, 7th May, 1900. I think that the suggestion is a good one, and that the aid should be sent. Tame Paeata.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Gisborne, 6th May, 1900. i think the sufferers from famine in India should be assisted from the Consolidated Fund as suggested. Wi Peee.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Palmerston North, sth May, 1900. Glad to find you have given my suggestion consideration, and only surprised the matter was not taken up before. Will certainly support devoting part of surplus to such a humane object, for, while we must recognise that some scheme could be and should have been devised to minimise extent of these recurring famines by British Government, the pressing necessities of the starving millions demand immediate attention. Feed. Pieani.

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The Right Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Darfield, 10th May, 1900. Having given consent to relief being sent to Ottawa, I will not withold it in case of India. At same time I must protest against individual members being asked to sanction such expenditure when Parliament is not sitting. My reply delayed owing to absence on Peninsula. E. Heaton Rhodes.

The Right Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Christchurch, sth May, 1900. Be Indian famine : I will support contribution from Consolidated Fund. At the same time, as the State contribution in this and the Canadian cases may become precedents, and thus tend to weaken public charity in future similar cases, I am of opinion that the State contribution to Indian Famine Fund should be supplemental to private donations, these being subsidised at pound for pound, or at such higher rate as the Cabinet may consider desirable. G. W. Russell.

The Right Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Hastings, 7th May, 1900. I think the colony may be liberal in donation to the Indian Famine Fund; the distress is so widespread, and the population always on the margin of starvation. I suggest assistance be sent in wheat, unless it can be bought cheaper in India. W. R. Russell.

The Right Hon. the Premier, Wellington. New Plymouth, 7th May, 1900. In reply to your memorandum re relief to famine-stricken Indians, I have already answered in the affirmative when replying to your memorandum re Ottawa case. 'To prevent any misunderstanding, I hope that New Zealand will grant from the consolidated funds substantial relief. lam proud to be a New Zealand representative after the handsome manner the Government, Parliament, and people of New Zealand have responded to Queen's Jubilee, Transvaal contingent, Ottawa relief, &c, now Indian famine. B. M. Smith.

The Right Hon. the Premier, Wellington. 10th May, 1900. In reply to your memorandum respecting the request of the Viceroy of India to this colony for practical sympathy towards alleviation of the people of India, who are suffering from famine, I desire to say, in the first place, that I quite concur in the proposal to contribute a sum of money from the consolidated revenue of this colony for the immediate alleviation of the most necessitous cases. I desire, however, to say that from my personal knowledge of the circumstances, which have hitherto and must in the future largely tend to cause famine in India, it is to be greatly deplored that the Government of that country does not take the necessary steps for the purpose of greatly minimising the possibility in the future of the recurrence of this terrible disaster, by passing such laws as will give the people a more equal distribution of the. vast stores of wealth possessed by an infinitesimal portion of the two hundred and ninety millions of people who inhabit British India. It is very deplorable to know that millions are starving in the midst of those who are living in the lap of profuse luxury. The matter is one which should, I believe, be brought prominently under the notice of the Imperial Legislature by all colonies and countries who have contributed to the Famine Fund. John Stevens.

The Right Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Ashburton, sth May, 1900. Be your memorandum Indian famine: Consider colony should contribute to relieve. As the Government has decided to send five thousand pounds to Canada, think should give not less sum to India. I would personally support vote of ten thousand. Wμ. J. Steward.

The Right Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Toko, 10th May, 1900. The people of New Zealand are responding handsomely to the appeals of the Viceroy of India for practical sympathy. Far more urgent Government sending aid from the consolidated funds to famine-stricken people of India than Ottawa conflagration. I consider that both can safely be left to private benevolence. Walteb Symes.

Memo, for the Premier. Wellington, 25th September, 1900. Deab Sib, —No such telegram as the one indicated in the attached papers ever reached me, to the best of my knowledge. I answered a telegram re a grant to the sufferers by the Ottawa fire, deprecating the grant, and pointing out that the Indian famine, which was a far graver disaster, was not even suggested as an object of attention. I should have supported the proposal to grant money for the latter purpose. Yours truly, W. W. Tanneb.

The Right Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Whangarei, sth May, 1900. Owing to the heavy demand made upon the people of this colony in connection with the war in South Africa, I fear there is little hope of much assistance by public subscription, either for the famine in India or the sufferers by the disastrous fire in Ottawa. Under the above circumstances, I think the Government would be justified in assisting from the consolidated funds. R. Thompson.

The Right Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Wellington, 7th May, 1900. Agbee with suggestion re allocating a sum from Consolidated Fund for relief of those suffering in India. Charity begins at home, but it should not end there. Thomas M. Wilpobd.

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The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Wanganui, sth May, 1900. I have no objection to a grant in aid of the Famine Fund, but I fear we are establishing precedents for similar cases that might in future cause private assistance to be curtailed. A. D. Willis.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Wellington, 7th May, 1900. I AGEEB to what Government resolve to do in regard to Canadian question, provided grant not in excess of two thousand pounds, as colony may yet require its money for colonial necessities. I do not approve of any more public subscriptions being started. Withefoed.

The Eight Hon. B. J. Seddon, Premier. Westport, 2nd May, 1900. Be Canadian fire relief: Your memorandum somewhat indefinite. If you mean Government contributing from Consolidated Eevenue, suppose in face of large expenditure already incurred on military contingents. If you mean free transmission of contributions subscribed by public I have no objection. However, property destroyed by fire will probably be well insured. Consider Indian Famine Belief Fund more deserving of your benevolence if Treasury is overburdened with surplus cash. E. MoKenzie.

Eeplies from Membees of the Legislative Council. The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Picton, 7th May, 1900. I approve of substantial assistance being given from Consolidated Fund to the famine-stricken millions in India. Baillie.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Eichmond, Bth May, 1900. The appeal from the Viceroy of India on behalf of the famine-stricken districts should, I feel, be met by a suitable grant from the Consolidated Fund of the colony. J. W. Baenicoat, M.L.C.

The Eight Hon. E. J. Seddon, Wellington. Dunedin, 7th May, 1900. In my opinion, the reasons for assisting the people of Canada apply with even greater force for aiding the famishing people of India. An amount equal to that granted in the former case should be given. The claims of common humanity demand it. The prosperity of the colony will warrant it. A thoughtful concern for the condition of the people of India, accompanied with help, will do much to consolidate Imperial interests in the country. ■ Wμ. Bolt.

Molesworth Street, Wellington, 7th May, 1900. The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Approve of colony giving practical assistance to relieve Indian famine. J. A. Bonar.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Christchurch, 7th May, 1900. I approve of aid being sent to India from Consolidated Fund. Charles C. Bowen.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Invercargill, 7th May, 1900. I think, as Indian Fund has been taken up by general public, and is being freely supported, there is every prospect of liberal donations going from New Zealand without assistance from public purse. Already over five hundred pounds subscribed Southland and over two thousand five hundred Dunedin, with money yet coming in. Action Government in contributing Ottawa Fund, and thus removing it from competition with Indian Fund, has very practically assisted the latter. . Heney Feldwick.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Wellington, 6th May, 1900. Eeply to urgent memorandum : Away from town when your first memorandum arrived. Eeturned this evening (Saturday). I agree with the former; also with proposal to help the famine-stricken of India in the way several members suggest—viz., that the aid should be given from the consolidated revenue. F. H. Feasee.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Dunedin, 7th May, 1900. lam in favour of the Government granting assistance to the famine-stricken people of India. Feel confident that the country will approve your action. Hugh Goueley.

Molesworth Street, Wellington, 7th May, 1900. The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. I approve of the colony contributing ten thousand pounds to the Indian Famine Belief Fund. Morgan S. Grace.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Tuakau, 7th May, 1900. Be Indian famine : Certainly pay out of Consolidated Fund a contribution. It is the best way to get at those who have no charitable feelings. B. Habeis.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Wellington, sth May, 1900. Willingly support the suggestion to render as much assistance as possible to the famine-stricken in India, and would urge that, if the suggestion is acted upon, the Government should at once send a shipload of produce from the colony to India. J. E. Jenkinson.

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The Bight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. New Plymouth, sth May, 1900. A duty is cast upon those in authority to answer practically the appeal made by the Viceroy of India. I favour the Government granting amount out of the Consolidated Fund. It is possible to reflect for a little on the suffering and intense misery that these unhappy famished people must be undergoing in India in the day of our country's prosperity. Let us remember these poor stricken people. Wμ. Thos. Jennings.

The Eight Hon. E. J. Seddon, Premier. Wellington, 6th May, 1900. I am in favour of extending practical sympathy to the famine-stricken people in India. C. J. Johnston.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Oamaru, sth May, 1900. If my opinion had been asked when you consulted me regarding the Ottawa sufferers I would have felt at liberty to express it. I should have advised aid from Consolidated Fund to famine-stricken of India, on these grounds : to realise appreciable amount by public subscription would occupy weeks of precious time. If aid is to be of any service it must be given quickly. The public have been drawn on so largely during the last twelve months. All should give to alleviate such abnormal suffering in British dependencies. I advocated in paper the course you suggest, and generally approve here. Think ten thousand at least should be cabled. It would be a thankoffering in acknowledgment of exceptional prosperity and happiness which we enjoy, as well as salvation of thousands of fellow-beings in grief of stark want. Geo. Jones.

The Eight Hon. E. J. Seddon, Premier. New Plymouth, 7th May, 1900. I am of opinion that we should to the extent of our means subscribe out of the public funds to give relief to the people of India, who are suffering from a terrible famine owing to the failure of crops over a large area of that dependency of the Crown. This would be a practical thanks-offering for our present prosperity. Thomas Kelly.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Auckland, 7th May, 1900. In reply to your memorandum, regret I was out of telegraphic communication. lam agreeable that the unfortunate, who are suffering from fire and famine in Canada and India should receive State aid, the Cabinet deciding what amount sufficient in each case. Wμ. Kelly.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Picton, 9th May, 1900. Beplying to your second telegram,-1 am also in favour of aid being sent from the Consolidated Fund to the famine-stricken in India. Couetenay Kenny.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Greymouth, sth May, 1900. I peel the greatest sympathy for the millions of famine-stricken people in India, and think the Government of New Zealand should send aid out of the Consolidated Fund to relieve the sufferers. Whilst we enjoy the blessings of a prosperous country, it is our duty to assist those in want, and I applaud your efforts in moving in this direction. I fell sure that the voice of the Parliament will be unanimous in upholding whatever aid you determine to give. James Kerb.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Dunedin, 7th May, 1900. Out of the abundance give to feed the starving. Gbo. McLean.

The "Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Oamaru, sth May, 1900. We cannot turn a deaf ear to the Viceroy of India's appeal. The famine is of unprecedented severity, over sixty-one millions are affected (see London Times, 16th March). I agree aid should be sent from Consolidated Fund. The magnitude of the distress would seem to need a larger sum than five thousand. H. J. Millee.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Little Eiver, 7th May, 1900. The great majority of the people of India are under the absolute control of the Indian Government, and it is the duty of that Government to provide food for the people in years of famine; but, as the Viceroy has applied to this colony for assistance, L. think such assistance should be given, for to refuse would hurt the feelings of thousands here who are benevolently disposed to relieve distress. W. Montgomery.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Auckland, 7th May, 1900. Certainly send aid, and make it as much as you can. G. B. Moeeis.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Napier, 7th May, 1900. In reply to your memorandum, I strongly recommend aid being given from the Consolidated Fund for relief of famine-stricken people in India. Eegret I was absent from home, and only read yesterday memorandum re aid to sufferers from fire in Canada. I cordially concur with the action taken by the Government. J. D. Oemond.

The Eight Hon. E. J. Seddon, Premier, Wellington. Christchurch, 7th May, 1900. I think this colony should render aid to the sufferers by famine in India. J. T. Peacock.

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The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Dunedin, sth May, 1900. I approve of relief being sent to suffering Indians. D. Pinkebton.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Nelson, 7th May, 1900. Having regard prosperous year and condition of New Zealand, consider it proper that colony should contribute to the Indian Famine Fund. The amount should be reasonable, but consistent with the dignity of the colony. Albeet Pitt.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Beefton, 7th May, 1900. I heartily agree to your proposition to assist famine-stricken people in India out of Consolidated Fund. It will be a graceful and generous act on the part of the New Zealand Government to assist our fellow-subjects. E. Beeves.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Levin, 12th May, 1900. I approve of the proposal that a sum of money be given in aid of the sufferers by famine in India. John Eigg.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. New Plymouth, 7th May, 1900. I have much pleasure in saying that I cordially approve of the idea of sending aid from the Consolidated Fund to the famine-stricken of India. Henry Scotland.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Oamaru, sth May, 1900. By all means send something worthy of the colony to the Indian famine-stricken people. S. B. Shrimski.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Dunedin, 7th May, 1900. Yes, I quite approve. Lee Smith.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Waipukurau, Bth May, 1900. I was away from home, else would have answered memorandum re granting aid to Indian Famine Belief Fund before. I think this is a specially heavy calamity that requires all possible assistance, and I am in favour of the Government giving a substantial grant from the Consolidated Fund, and I hope this will be done. W. C. Smith.

The Eight Hon. E. J. Seddon, Wellington. Christchurch, 7th May, 1900. Indian famine: I assume Viceroy's appeal not for State aid, but for subscriptions from New Zealand public. In my judgment, any grant out of Consolidated Fund towards charitable aid outside colony, whether on account of famine, fires, or other disasters, unjustifiable. B. Stevens.

The Bight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Auckland, 7th May, 1900. I cordially support proposal to send assistance from the Consolidated Fund to the sufferers by famine in India. Wμ. Swanson.

The Bight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Hastings, Bth May, 1900. I agree with those who suggested to draw from the consolidated funds. By all means help our fellow-creatures suffering from famine in India and fire at Ottawa. My greatest sympathy with them. . H. Tomoana.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Temuka, 7th May, 1900. Telegram too late on Saturday to reply. Yes, better than leave it to private benevolence, which means a tax on benevolent, exemption of the miserly. J. M. Twomey.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Geraldine, 11th May, 1900. If the Consolidated Fund can stand it, I think we should certainly help the poor people in India L. Walker.

The Eight Hon. the Premier, Wellington. Kawakawa, 7th May, 1900. I think the famine-stricken in India as deserving of aid as sufferers by conflagration Ottawa, and practical aid should be sent them. Government best judges as to ways and means. H. Williams.

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