DESPATCHES FROM THE GOVERNOR OF NEW ZEALAND TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES.

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1903 Session I, A-01

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1903. NEW ZEALAND.

DESPATCHES FROM THE GOVERNOR OF NEW ZEALAND TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES.

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by Command of His Excellency.

INDEX.

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No. of Series. Date. Subject. Page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 18 14 15 Iβ 17 L8 19 20 21 22 28 24 25 20 27 28 29 80 81 32 38 84 12 April, 1902 .. 18 April, „ 23 April, „ 5 May. 7 May, 9 May, 9 May, 10 May, 8 July, ,, ... 4 July, 10 July, 11 July, •„ .. 21 July, 5 Aug 15 Aug., „ I 16 Aug., „ i 25 Aug, 12 Sept., 13 Sept., „ 15 Sept., „ 4 Oct., 6 Oct., . .. 7Oct 8 Oct., 27 Oct., 27Oct 19 Nov., 15 Dec, 15 Dec, 15 Dec, 6 Jan., 1903 .. 10 Jan., 30 Jan., 1 Feb Meat contracts, South Africa .. ■ Nominal roll of Ninth Contingent Treatment of colonial nurses, South Africa .. • • • • • • ■ Nominal roll of Tenth Contingent, and details of Seventh, Eighth, and Ninth School-teachers for South Africa Application of " Colonial Solicitors Act, 1900," to Now Zealand Pacific Islands : List of, and annexation Resolutions for Premiers' Conference, to Governor-General of Australia Sinking fund for four-per-cent. Imperial guaranteed debentures New Zealand Ensign Opening of Parliament .. Regret at serious illness of His Majesty Title of " Royal " to New Zealand Engineers .. .. .; Expenses of extradition with America 2 2 2 3 3 3 5 5 5 6 6 6 <; 7 Resolutions congratulating His Majesty upon his Coronation 7 Surveyors for Gold Coast Saluting batteries in New Zealand Meat contracts Board of Trade and agricultural documents Prorogation of Parliament Lease of Suwarrow Island One of H.M. ships to convey Governor to Cook and other islands Case of s.s. " Waikato " Acts of 1902 .. .. • • Information respecting accidents by machinery for Russia Postage rates between New Zealand and French Oceania Certificates required from British Consul, San Francisco .. .. International Telegraph Conference : Agent-General to represent New Zealand .. Volunteer long-service decorations .. Application for war trophies from South Africa Insured letter agreement .. .. •• • • ; • • ■ . Admission of New Zealand barristers and solicitors to practise in South Africa .. Penny post agreement with Chili, Nicaragua, Liberia, Paraguay, Portugal and Portuguese Colonies, Siam • • ■ • • • Sugar Bounties Convention : New Zealand does not wish to adhere to .. Gift of Pakutea Island to His Majesty Marriage and divorce laws of New Zealand Medical examination of third-class passengers for New Zealand Treasure lost on ship " General Grant " Gold and silver production of the colony, year 1902 Training-ship for boys .. •■ •• ■■ . •• •■ •• D.S.O. for Majors Abbott and Bartlett, Lieutenants Hickie, Tudor, and Townley.. His Majesty's medal for long service and conclusion of the war 7 8 8 8 8 9 9 9 10 13 13 13 14 14 14 14 15 35 36 •M 88 39 40 41 42 18 2 Feb., 6 Feb., 7 Feb., 21 Feb., 23 Feb., . .. 14 Mar., 19 Mar., 6 April, 11 April, „ 15 18 15 16 16 17 17 17 18 18

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No. 1. (No. 27.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 12th April, 1902. I have the honour to enclose you herewith a memorandum from my Premier relative to meat contracts. I have, &c, The Bijyht Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Enclosure. Memorandum for His Excellency the Governor. The Premier presents his compliments, and desires that His Excellency will reply to the cable from the Secretary of State, dated the 13th February, relative to meat supply, to the effect that in the Colony of New Zealand there is a well-formed and well-founded opinion, irrespective of the conditions which trammel the Mother-country, that it is prepared to take a course which is within its constitutional rights, and trusts may be in the best interest of the Empire. This larger question was incidentally introduced in respect .to the minor question of South African meat contracts; and when gauging the situation from the specifications of such contracts, arrangements made outside the said specifications were not known to the New Zealand Government. The conditions of tender were not favourable to the colonies ; the time allowed, and with no forms available, and the extension of time refused, gave ground for protest. Again, the stress laid upon delivery was unknown to those here who intended offering to supply. The assurance that in the spirit as well as in the letter the meat supply will be obtained as far as possible from British possessions is satisfactory, and on the supplies being thus obtained great good will ensue. The Premier desires His Excellency to assure the Secretary of State that in neither letter no» spirit did the Premier lay any claim to consideration in respect to the meat contract on account <af or in recognition of the services tendered by the colony during the war ; for in respect to this matter the Premier hopes he made it perfectly clear that, no matter what occurred in respect to the meat supply, it would in no way affect the action of the colony in rendering assistance in connection with the war. Direct trade in relation to supplies for British troops is apart from the larger question of preferential trade, and is in no way connected with the greatest of all questions, Imperial unity and the wellbeing of the Empire, and the help the colony has cheerfully rendered to bring the war in South Africa to a speedy and successful ending. Premier's Office, Wellington, 2nd April, 1902. E. J Seddon.

No. 2. (No. 31.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 18th April, 1902. With reference to my despatch (No. 25), dated 3rd April, 1902, enclosing a nominal roll of the Ninth Contingent, I have the honour to forward you now a complete nominal roll of that contingent. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-l, 1902, No. 87.

No. 3. (No. 34.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 23rd April, 1902, I have the honour to cail your attention to the different treatment of colonial and. British nurses as regards the war in South Africa. A number of nurses from this colony have been employed in the Army Nursing Service Reserve. Two of these, Mabel Brooksmith and Geraldine Jefferies, served in the R.A.M.C. for nearly two years, and received their discharge in London. On applying for the bounty given to the English nurses they state they were informed that colonial nurses were not entitled to it. My Government have pointed out to me this invidious distinction, and have asked me to draw your attention to it, in the hope that colonial nurses may be placed on an equal and similar footing with British ones. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. i. (No. 35.) Sik, — Government House, Wellington, sth May, 1902. I have the honour to forward you herewith the nominal roll of the Tenth New Zealand Contingent, together with details, and details of the Seventh, Eighth, and Ninth Contingents. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 5. (No. 38.) Sik, — Government House, Wellington, 7th May, 1902. With further reference to your despatch (No. 5) dated 18th January, 1902, relative to this colony sending teachers to South Africa. I have the honour to inform you that twenty teachers have sailed this month for the Cape, and I have duly advised Lord Milner, and sent him the necessary documents. There were 222 applicants for the twenty appointments. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 111.

No. 6. (No. 41.) Sin,— Government House, Wellington, 9th May, 1902. With reference to your despatch (general), dated Bth November, 1901, relative to the application of " The Colonial Solicitors Act, 1900," to New Zealand, I have the honour to inform you that the President of the New Zealand Law Society has now submitted a memorandum embodying the society's views. The President has also submitted a memorandum from the society relative to the call to the English bar of New Zealand barristers. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1502, No. 95.

Enclosures. Memorandum from the New Zealand Law Society, for the Hon. the Ministee of Justice, embodying the Views of the Society on the Question of Beciprocity with England in the Matter of the Admission of Solicitors. The Council begs to submit, for the information of the Hon. the Minister of Justice, the following considerations : — The despatch of Bth November, 1901, from the Bight Hon. the Secretary of State for the Colonies, a copy of which was forwarded by the Hon. the Minister to the New Zealand Law Society, was considered at a meeting of the Council of the New Zealand Law Society held at Wellington on the 2nd day of April, 1902. 1. As to reciprocity with Scotland and Ireland, it is not considered by the Council that the question of reciprocity with Scotlaud and Ireland is of great importance ; and, as the difficulties iti the way of arranging such reciprocity seem to be greater than those which have to be met in arranging reciprocity with England, it is not proposed to ask the Government of New Zealand to press that part of the question at present. 2. As to reciprocity with England: The first consideration which arises on perusal of " The Colonial Solicitors Act, 1900," and the despatch of the Bth November, 1901, is the important result of that Act, that unless reciprocity can be arranged thereunder, the repeal of the Colonial Attorneys Belief Act effected thereby deprives New Zealand solicitors of the benefits which were conferred by those statutes while they were in force, and that, in consequence of such repeal, no account can now be taken of any New Zealand solicitor desiring admission in England, though his actual qualifications to practise in England may be in fact unquestionable. At the same time it will still be open to English solicitors to avail themselves of the concessions given by the existing New Zealand law on application by them for admission in New Zealand. As to the question of articles of clerkship, it is found to be almost invariable practice for solicitors who have qualified for practice in New Zealand, since the passing of the Act rendering articles optional, to seek for some substantial period (before commencing practice in New Zealand), practi-

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oal experience in the employment of some solicitor. Taking the City of Wellington as an example, the Council find that of the thirty-nine practising solicitors who have qualified since " The Law Practitioners Act, 1882," came into operation, twenty-three had, before commencing practice, been engaged, in acquiring a practical knowledge of the law by service in a solicitor's office for periods of five years and upwards; nine for periods varying from three to five years ; three for periods varying from two to three years (one of these also acted as secretary to a Judge of the Supreme Court for one year), one for a period of a year and a half, and one for a period of six months, while one had been employed as an officer of the Government for nine years in the Deeds Eegistration and Land Transfer Department and Stamp Office, and for one year in the office of a practising solicitor, and one had acted for ten years as secretary to the Chief Justice. It is quite recognised by law students in New Zealand that it is useless to practise without previously acquiring the necessary experience. The law examiners employed by the New Zealand University, under whose control all law examinations are conducted, recognise the necessity for practical experience, and the papers set by them are prepared specially with a view to testing the practical as well as the theoretical knowledge of candidates. The Council encloses for the information of the Secretary of State for the Colonies a copy of the examination papers set at the last University examination, and also a copy of the New Zealand University Calendar. The Council is of opinion that the requirements of " The Colonial Solicitors Act, 1900," will be met if the Order in Council extending the Act to New Zealand requires candidates for admission to produce a certificate of a Judge of the Supreme Court that such candidate has, before commencing practice in New Zealand, been engaged exclusively in acquiring a practical knowledge of law for a period of not less than three years, either under articles of clerkship or law pupilage (under subsection (4) of section 5, or subsection (4) of section 16 of " The Law Practitioners Act; 1861 "), or otherwise in the employment of a practising barrister or solicitor. That, in order to meet the objection contained in clause 2 of the despatch of Bth November, 1901, it is further suggested that the Order in Council applying " The Colonial Solicitors Act, 1900," to New Zealand should contain a condition that, while the provisions of " The Law Practitioners Act, 1882," providing for the examination in law of English solicitors, remains in force, New Zealand solicitors applying for admission in England should be required to pass an examination in law similar to that required in the case of English solicitors applying for admission in New Zealand. The Council suggests, however, that the New Zealand law might with advantage be amended by providing that any English barrister or solicitor who has been in practice in England for not less than three years (the period of practice prescribed by " The Colonial Solicitors Act, 1900," as entitling a colonial solicitor to admission in England) be admitted to practise in New Zealand without further examination. , Martin Chapman, Wellington, 21st April, 1902. Vice-President, New Zealand Law Society.

Call to the English Bar of New Zealand Barristers of Five Years' Standing. The New Zealand Law Society respectfully begs to submit, through the Hon. the Minister of Justice, for the consideration of the Eight Hon. the Secretary of State for the Colonies, the subjoined statement of the disadvantages to which members of the New Zealand bar desiring to practise in England are subject, and to respectfully request that an endeavour be made to arrange with the authorities of the Inns of Court more favourable terms. Statement referred to. 1. That in 1882 the General Assembly of New Zealand passed an Act to consolidate and amend the law relating to law practitioners, intituled " The Law Practitioners Act, 1882." 2. That such Act provided for the qualification of barristers and of solicitors for the Supreme Court, and is still in force. 3. That particulars of the qualifications prescribed for barristers and for solicitors are contained in the rules and regulations under the said Act. A copy of the said rules and regulations is attached hereto. 4. That all law examinations under the said rules are conducted by the New Zealand University. 5. That provision was' made by the said Act for the enrolment as barristers of solicitors who should apply to be so enrolled within twelve months after the passing of the Act, but not otherwise, excepting on passing a further examination. 6. That, although by the said Act every barrister is entitled to practise as a solicitor, no solicitor, except as aforesaid, is entitled to be enrolled as a barrister. 7. That by " The Law Practitioners Act, 1898," provision is made for the enrolment as a barrister of any solicitor who shall have been continuously in active practice for five years. 8. That there are many solicitors in New Zealand who are not enrolled as barristers, and only a limited number of enrolled barristers are in active practice as advocates. 9. That section 6 (1) of the Act of 1882 provides for the enrolment as a barrister of " any person who has been admitted as a barrister in any superior or Supreme Court of any part of Her Majesty's dominions, and has passed an examination ... in the knowledge of the law of New Zealand in as far as it differs from the law of England." 10. That, notwithstanding such provision enabling members of the English bar to be readily enrolled as barristers in New Zealand, the Consolidated Eegulations of the Four Inns of Court make no provision whatever exempting New Zealand barristers from the necessity for keeping the terms required to entitle an inexperienced student to be called to the English bar.

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11. That by "The Colonial Solicitors Act, 1900," provision is made for the admission, as English solicitors, of colonial solicitors of three years' standing. 12. That by the Consolidated Eegulations of the Four Inns of Court five years' practice as a colonial solicitor entitles an English solicitor to be called to the bar without keeping terms. ' 13. That the absence of all reciprocal provision for the call of New Zealand barristers in England operates with hardship on members of the New Zealand bar who may desire to practise at.the English bar, especially in view of the fact that five years' experience as a colonial solicitor is recognised by the Consolidated Eegulations as sufficient to exempt an English solicitor from the necessity for keeping terms. 14. That five years' active practice as an advocate in New Zealand ought, on proof of personal fitness, to qualify for call to the English bar without keeping terms or passing a further examination. 15. That five years' practice as a solicitor in New Zealand ought, on proof of personal fitness, to qualify for call to the English bar on passing the same examination as is required of an English solicitor applying to be called. Mabtin Chapman, Vice-President, New Zealand Law Society.

No. 7. (No. 42.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 9th May, 1902. I have been informed by His Excellency the Commander-in-Chief, Australian Station, that a list has been made out of all the islands in the Pacific with the nationality of country claiming them. I have the honour to request that a copy of this list should be given to my Premier in London, also that I may be furnished with a copy. I understand that this list is now in the possession of the Admiralty. My Government ask that you would favourably consider the advisability of all islands, either British or under British protection, lying near New Zealand, being annexed to, this colony. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 8. (No. 43.) Sir,— Government House, Wellington, 10th May, 1902. With reference to your telegram of the 29th ultimo, I have the honour no! Bi. to inform you that I have forwarded to the Governor-General, Australia, for the information of his Ministers, copies of the resolutions which my Premier desires to be proposed and discussed at the Conference of Premiers in London. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, BANFUBLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 9. (No. 58.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 3rd July, 1902. With reference to your despatch, No. 48, dated 16th May, 1902, A.-2,1903. respecting the sinking fund for the redemption of the Xow Zealand 4-per-cent. No, 18, Imperial-guaranteed debentures, I have the honour to inform you that my Government agree to the proposal made by the trustees of the sinking fund: (a.) In any of the securities named in "The Trustee Act, 1893." (b.) In the debentures or inscribed stocks of any colonial Government for which an official quotation has been granted by the Stock Exchange. I should be glad if you would signify such approval to the Lords of the Treasury. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. 10. (No. 59.) Siji,— Government House, Wellington, 4th July, 1902. With reference to your despatch, No. 41, dated 30th April, 1902, asking to be supplied with coloured drawings of the New Zealand ensign, I have the honour to enclose a coloured drawing of the New Zealand ensign, which, under the provisions of " The New Zealand Ensign Act, 1901," is the recognised flag for general use on shore within the colony, and on all vessels belonging to the Government of New Zealand which are permitted under Admiralty warrant to use the same; together with two copies of a Gazette notice describing the stars which form the badge. I further enclose a coloured drawing of the red ensign which merchant vessels registered in the colony are, by Admiralty warrant dated the 7th February, 1899, authorised to fly. As the fly of this ensign is red, the colour of the stars forming the badge is white. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1903, No. 12.

No. 11. (No. 62.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 10th July, 1902. I have the honour to inform you that the third session of the Fourteenth Parliament of New Zealand was opened by me on the Ist instant, and I enclose copies of the following documents : — («.) The Speech that I read on that occasion. (b.) Address in reply, presented to me by the Honourable the Legislative Council. (c.) Address in reply, presented to me by the Speaker and members of the House of Representatives. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 12. (No. 63.) Sin, — Government House, Wellington, 11th July, 1902. I have the honour to inform you that I have received from all parts of New Zealand letters and telegrams expressing profound regret at the serious illness of His Majesty, and conveying deep sympathy to Her Majesty and the Royal Family. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 13. (No. 65.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 21st July, 1902. I have the honour to inform you that the corps of the Permanent Forces of New Zealand has been divided into two branches -namely, Artillery and Engineers —and my Government are desirous that each branch may be allowed" to affix the title " Royal " : " The Royal New Zealand Artillery " ; and " The Eoyal New Zealand Engineers." 2. His Majesty having been graciously pleased to grant the title " Royal " to the Permanent Forces of the colony under the title " Royal New Zealand Artillery," my responsible Advisers hope that the King will grant this honour to the other branch into which this Force has since been divided. 3. The granting of such a distinction would be highly appreciated. I have, &c , The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. 14. (No. 67.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, sth August, 1902. With reference to your despatch dated the Bth May, 1902, relative to the expenses incurred in connection with cases of extradition from the United States of America, I have the honour to inform you that the practice in this colony is similar to that prevailing in England, as set out in the Home Office letter of the 26th March, 1902, but in the United States the procedure is different. On the latest occasion on which the surrender of a fugitive from New Zealand who had fled to the United States was demanded the expenses incurred by His Britannic Majesty's Consul, and paid by my Government, amounted to £289 11s. Id., of which sum £206 12s. 3d. was incurred for legal assistance. My Government concur with the views expressed by the Home Office, and are desirous that the arrangement referred to therein shall be brought into force. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1903, No. 13.

No. 15. (No. 68.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 15th August, 1902. I have the honour to forward you herewith resolutions passed by the Legislative Council and the House of Representatives, congratulating His Majesty the King upon his coronation. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Enclosures. Resolved, nemine contradicente, " That this Council desires to' record its respectful congratulations to His Majesty the King upon his Coronation, and to express the hope that the reign of His Majesty and Queen Alexandra may be a long and happy one." 12th August, 1902. Resolved, nemine contradicente, " That this House desires to record its respectful congratulations to His Majesty the King upon his Coronation, ard to express the hope that the reign of His Majesty and Queen Alexandra may be a long and happy one." 12th August, 1902.

No. 16. (No. 69.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 16th August, 1902. I have the honour to inform you that I have received resolutions from all parts of the colony, from towns and country districts, from societies and associations, as well as from many Maori tribes, expressing congratulations and thankfulness that His Majesty should have so far recovered as to admit of his coronation. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 17. (No. 72.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 26th August, 1902. Referring to your despatch JNo. 36, of the 11th April, 1902, asking for surveyors for the Gold Coast, and to the subsequent telegraphic communications of the 10th July, the 31st July, the Bth August, and the 2oth August, I have

A.-2, 1903, No. 9.

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now the honour to inform you that three surveyors and six subordinates have this day left Wellington for London, and should arrive there about the 27th September next. I have further the honour to enclose to you: (1) Report from the SurveyorGeneral to the Hon. the Minister of Lands ; (2) copy of agreement; (3) copy of letter of appointment; (4) printed memo, and summary; (5) draft letter to the Agent-General. The surveyors are instructed to report themselves on arrival to the AgentGeneral for New Zealand for instructions. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 18. (No. 73.) Sir,— Government House, Wellington, 12th September, 1902. With reference to your despatch No. 61, dated 27th June, 1902, asking for further information as to the saluting batteries at Wellington and Auckland, I have the honour to inform you that in Wellington the saluting battery is at Thorndon Battery, Pipitea Point, and in Auckland at Fort Cautley, at North Head. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1903, No. 27.

No. 19. (No. 74.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 13th September, 1902. With reference to your despatch No. 62, dated the Bth July, 1902, on the subject of army meat contracts, I have the honour to inform you that the general arrangements referred to meet the approval of my Government. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1903, No. 28.

No. 20. (No. 75.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 15th September, 1902. With reference to your despatch circular, dated the 9th July, 1902, asking that the Board of Agriculture should be furnished from time to time with any documents regarding agriculture in this colony, I have the honour to inform you that my Government will be pleased to furnish such documents direct to the Board. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 21. (No. 79.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 4th October, 1902. I have the honour to inform you that I prorogued the third session of the Fourteenth Parliament of New Zealand on the 3rd instant. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. 22. (No. 80.) Sir, — Government House", Wellington, 6th October, 1902. In reply to your despatches, No. 40 of the 30th April and No. 56 of the 18th June, 1902, on the question of the lease of Suwarrow Island, I have the honour to enclose you a draft lease for the remaining term, which I trust will be found satisfactory. I should be glad if you would submit the draft for the consideration of the licensees. My Government would require to be satisfied that the original license has been cancelled, and they consider that the licensees should pay the reasonable costs of the Crown for the renewal, namely, three guineas. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1903, Nos. 11, 24,

No. 23. (No. 82.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 7th October, 1902. I have the honour to inform you that the Acting-Premier (Sir Joseph Ward) has asked me to request that one of His Majesty's ships should be placed at my disposal in April next to convey me and the Minister in charge of the extended boundaries, round the Cook Islands, Penrhyn, Suwarrow, Niue, &c. As this is the first visit by the Minister responsible for the government of these islands, my Advisers consider that it would be best, in the interests of future government, for the Natives to see that this visit was fully indorsed by His Majesty, as taking place in a man-of-war. The visit in question will be entirely official, and the stay at each will be only of such duration as will enable the Minister to deal with all matters necessary, and to make himself acquainted with the requirements and needs of the natives. As the arrangements for such a visit, owing to the difficulty of communication, will take a considerable time, I should be glad to have a reply by cable. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 24. (No. 84.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, Bth October, 1902. With reference to your despatch, No. 71, dated the 29th July, 1902, A ._ 2) 1903, regarding the case of the s.s. " Waikato," I have the honour to inform you that No - 32 - -my Government report to me as follows : — " The Magistrate before whom the charge against the firemen of the ' Waikato ' was heard held that the vessel was subject to section 7 of ' The Shipping and Seamen's Act Amendment Act, 1894,' which provides a manning scale for vessels engaged in the coastal or intercolonial trade. The interpretation which the Marine Department places upon the words ' engaged in the coastal trade ' is that a vessel must ship passengers or cargo at one New Zealand port and land them at another port in the colony; and if this is correct, and the ' Waikato' did not ship passengers or cargo in the colony for conveyance to a New Zealand port, she would not be subject to the New Zealand manning scale. The Magistrate having, however, given his decision against the master, the latter could, if he considered it wrong, have appealed against it." I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies. 2—A. 1.

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No. 25. (No. 90.) Sir, — Government House,- Wellington, 27th October, 1902. I have the honour to forward you herewith a synopsis, prepared by the Law Officers, of the Acts passed during the third session of the Fourteenth Parliament of New Zealand, together with the Acts duly authenticated with the seal of the colony. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Enclosures. Foe the information of His Excellency the Governor I beg to report as follows : — 1. The synopsis attached hereto contains a list of all the Acts passed by the General Assembly of New Zealand during the session which ended on the 3rd day of October, 1902. 2. In my opinion none of these Acts are repugnant to the law of England; nor was it necessary they or any of them should have been reserved for the signification of His Majesty's pleasure thereon in accordance with the Royal Instructions of the 26th day of March, 1892. Dated at Wellington, this 14th day of October, 1902. Fbed. Fitchbtt, Solicitor-General.

Synopsis of Acts passed by the General Assembly of New Zealand in the Session ended the 4th day of October, 1902. Public General Acts. 1. " The Imprest Supply Act, 1902."—Granting £461,000 and £10,000 towards the services of the current financial year. 2. "The Imprest Supply Act, 1902 (No. 2)." —Granting £465,000 and £10,000 towards the like services. 3. " The Aid to Public Works and Land Settlement Act, 1902."—Authorising the raising of a loan of £1,750,000 to be applied in the construction of the public works specified in the Schedule to the Act. 4. "The Imprest Supply Act, 1902 (No. 3)."—Granting £465,000 and £10,000 towards the services of the current financial year. 5. " The East Coast Native Trust Lands Act, 1902."—Making provision for the disposition of certain lands held upon trust for Natives upon the east coast of the North Island. 6. "The Statutes Repeal Act, 1902." —Eepealing enactments which have ceased to be in force. 7. " The Local Authorices' Indemnity Act, 1902."—Legalising the expenditure of certain local authorities in celebrating the Coronation of His Majesty. 8. "The State Coal-mines Amendment Act, 1902." —Amending " The State Coal-mines Act, 1901," making temporary provision for payments being made without appropriation. 9. " The Fisheries Encouragement Act, 1902."—Extending the time during which bonuses on canned and cured fish are payable. 10. " The Statutes Compilation Act, 1902."—Providing for the compilation of Acts of Parliament with their amendments. 11. " The Unclaimed Moneys Act Amendment Act, 1902." —Amending " The Unclaimed Moneys Act, 1898," covering unclaimed amounts already in hand for a period of six years and upwards. 12. " The Stamp Act Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending " The Stamp Act, 1882," in various details. 13. " The Manual and Technical Instruction Act, 1902."—Amending " The Manual and Technical Instruction Act, 1900," in matters of detail. 14. " The Motor-cars Regulation Act, 1902."—Providing for the regulation of motor-cars. 15. " The Opium Prohibition Act Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending " The Opium Prohibition Act, 1901," by increasing penalties, and other matters. 16 " The New Zealand University Act Amendment Act, 1902."—Providing for the reconstitution of the Senate of the University. 17. " The Land Transfer Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending " The Land Transfer Act, 1885," and adopting the principle of " The Mortgages of Land Act, 1901." 18. " The Land and Deeds Registration Districts Act, 1902." —Removing difficulties in connection with alterations in boundaries of Land and Deeds Registration districts. 19. " The Fisheries Conservation Act Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending " The Fisheries Conservation Act, 1884," validating existing regulations, providing for establishment of hatcheries, and other matters. 20. " The Old-age Pensions Amendment Act, 1902."—Providing against the obtaining of pensions by fraud. 21. "The Electoral Act, 1902."—Consolidating and amending the law relating to the representation of the people in the House of Representatives.

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22. "The Mining Act Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending "The Mining Act, 1898," giving the Warden extended powers in the matter of mineral leases, and regulating the hours of underground labour. 23. " The Second-hand Dealers Act, 1902."—Providing for the licensing of second-hand dealers, and regulating the sale of second-hand goods. 24. "The Sharebrokers Act, 1902."—Providing for the licensing of sharebrokers, and the registration of stock exchanges. 25. " The Birds Nuisance Act, 1902."—Providing for the destruction of injurious birds. 26. " The Nelson Harbour Board Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending " The Nelson Harbour Board Amendment Act, 1901," by giving the Board an annual sum as an equivalent for rents of land taken from the Board. 27. " The Savings-bank Profits Act Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending "The Savings-bank Profits Act, 1878," by extending the definition of " institutions " to the Otago University. 28. " The Law Societies Act, 1902."—Eemoving doubts as to the validity of the constitution of certain law societies. 29. " The Post and Telegraph Department Act, 1902."—Amending classification of the Post and Telegraph Department. 30. " The Land-tax and Income-tax Act, 1902."—Imposing a land-tax and income-tax for the current financial year. 31. " The Kauri-gum Industry Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending " The Kauri-gum Industry Act, 1898," as to licenses in State forests. 32. " The Local Bodies' Loans Amendment Act, 1902." —Amending " The Local Bodies' Loans Act, 1901," in various matters of detail. 33. "The Pacific Cable Extension Act, 1902."—Extending the provisions of " The Pacific Cable Authorisation Act, 1899." 34. "The Cook and other Islands Government Act Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending " The Cook and other Islands Government Act, 1901," and extending its operations for two years, and enabling the Governor to apply the laws of New Zealand with modifications. 35. "The Australasian Naval Defence Act, 1902." —Making further provision for the maintenance of a naval force in Australian waters. 36. " The West Coast Settlement Eeserves Act Amendment Act, 1902." —Amending "The West Coast Settlement Eeserves Act, 1892, as to dealings by the Public Trustee with certain lands. 37. "The Land Titles Protection Act, 1902."—Protecting the land titles of the colony from frivolous attacks in certain cases. 38. " The Bank Holidays Act, 1902."—Amending the law relating to bank holidays. 39. "The Courthouse Sites Exchange Act, 1902." —Authorising the exchange of certain lands. 40. " The Solicitors' Bills of Costs Act, 1902."—Providing for the examination of solicitors' bills of costs, 41. " The Licensing Committees and Polls Act, 1902." —Amending the law relating to Licensing Committees and licensing polls, providing for a recount of votes, and reducing the quorum of the Committees. 42. " The Inspection of Machinery Act, 1902." —Consolidating and amending the law relating to the inspection of machinery. 43. "The Accident Insurance Companies Act, 1902." —Providing for the publication of accounts of accident insurance companies. 44. " The Victoria College Site Act, 1902." —Providing for the acquisition of a site for the Victoria College. 45. " The Government Eailways Superannuation Fund Act, 1902."—Establishing a superannuation fund in connection with the Government Eailways Department. 46. " The Poisons Importation and Carriage Amendment Act, 1902." —Amending " The Poisons Importation and Carriage Act, 1895," with regard to sheep-dip. 47. "The Inebriates Institutions Amendment Act, 1902," amending " The Inebriates Institutions Act, 1898," to provide for the case of unruly inmates. 48. "The Pharmacy Act Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending "The Pharmacy Act, 1898," by authorising an annual membership fee. 49. "The Methodist Church of Australasia in New Zealand Act, 1902."—Giving statutory sanction to the change of name of the Wesleyan Methodist Church in New Zealand. 50. "The Legislative Council Act Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending "The Legislative Council Act, 1891," continuing the term of office of Speaker during the recess. 51. " The Companies Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending "The Companies Act, 1901," in various matters of detail. 52. "The Midland Eailway Petitions Settlement Act, 1902." —Providing for the satisfaction of the grievances of debenture-holders of the New Zealand Midland Eailway Company (Limited). 53. "The Eailways Authorisation Act, 1902." —Authorising the construction by the Governor on behalf of His Majesty of certain railways. 54. "The Military Pensions Act, 1902."—Amending "The Military Pensions Act, 1866," and extending its provisions to certain contingents. 55. " The Factories Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending " The Factories Act, 1901," in various matters of detail. 56. " The Native and Maori Land Laws Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending the law relating to Native and Maori lands in various matters. 57. " The Towns Main Streets Act, 1902."—Amending the law relating to the width of main streets in towns.

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58. " The Waihi Hospital District Act, 1902."—Constituting a district of Waihi under "The Hospitals and Charitable Institutions Act, 1885." 59. " The Municipal Corporations Amendment Act, 1902." —Amending " The Municipal Corporations Act, 1900," in certain matters suggested by the Municipal Conference, and as to subsidies. 60. " The Public Health Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending "The Public Health Act, 1900," giving greater powers to lotal authorities. 61. " The Workers' Compensation for Accidents Act Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending " The Workers' Compensation for Accidents Act, 1900," extending the Act to agricultural labourers, and other matters. 62. " The Appropriation Act, 1902." —Being the annual grant to His Majesty of the sums mentioned in the Act for the services of the current financial year. Local Acts. 1. "The University of Otago Empowering Act, 1902."—Empowering the renunciation of a certsin legacy. 2. " The Hawera Borough Betterment Act, 1902."—Requiring the owners of lands adjacent to public streets widened by the Borough Council to bear part of the cost of widening. 3. "The Tukituki Bridge Loans Act, 1902." —Rectifying an error in a specisl order of the Hawke's Bay County Council. 4. " The Christchurch District Drainage Act 1875 Amendment Act, 1902."—Amending the Christchurch District Drainage Acts in various matters. 5. " The Masterton Trustees Empowering Act, 1902." —Authorising the exchange of certain lands. 6. "The Wellington Harbour Board Empowering Act, 1902." — Extending the borrowing powers of the Board. 7. " The Dunedin Town Belt Roads Closing and Regulation Act, 1902."—Providing for the closing of certain roads in Dunedin, and regulating the roads therein. 8. "The Egmont County Districts Adjustment Act, 1902."—Readjusting the boundaries of the road districts in Egmont County. 9. " The Balclutha Reserves and Empowering Act, 1902."—Changing the purpose of a reserve, and empowering the Borough Council to deal with certain lands. 10. "The Masterton Borough Betterment Act, 1902." —Requiring the owners of lands adjacent to public streets widened by the Borough Council to bear part of the cost of widening. 11. "The Pahiatua County Council Empowering Act, 1902." — Empowering the County Council to sell certain lands. 12. " The Christchurch Tramways District Act, 1902."—Facilitating the construction and working of tramways in the City and suburbs of Christchurch. 13. "The City of Christchurch Electric Power and Loan Empowering Act, 1902." —Authorising the City Council to obtain power of electric lighting, and to borrow money for that and other purposes. 14. " The Dilworth Trustees Act, 1902."—Extending the powers of the trustees of the will of the late James Dilworth. 15. " The Dunedin District Drainage and Sewerage Act 1900 Amendment Act, 1902."—■ Amending "The Dunedin District Drainage and Sewerage Act, 1900," in various matters. 16. "The New River Harbour Reclamation Act, 1902."—Authorising the reclamation of certain lands from the New River Harbour. 17. " The Bluff Harbour Board Representation Act, 1902."—Amending the constitution of the Board. 18. " The Invercargill Corporation Reserve Exchange Act, 1902."—Authorising the exchange of certain lands. 19. " The Waimarino County Act, 1902." —Constituting a new county for local government purposes. 20. "The Hawera Hospital District Act, 1902." — Constituting a district under "The Hospitals and Charitable Institutions Act, 1885." 21. " The Oxford and Cust Road Districts Alteration of Boundaries Act, 1902." —Altering the boundaries of the Oxford and the Cust Road Districts. 22. " The Waikokopu Harbour Board Act, 1902."—Constituting a Harbour Board for the Port of Waikokopu. 23. " The Weber County Act, 1902."—Constituting a new county for local government purposes. 24. "The Nelson City Streets and Reserves Act, 1902." —Authorising the acquisition and exchange of certain lands. 25. "The North Canterbury Common Hospital Reserve Act, 1902."—Altering the purpose of a reserve. 26. "The Christchurch City Council Empowering Act, 1902."—Authorising the payment of certain retiring-allowances. 27. "The Mount Herbert County Act, 1902." —Constituting a new county for local government purposes. 28. "The Bluff Harbour Foreshore Reclamation and Leasing and Borrowing Act, 1902."— Authorising the reclamation and disposition of certain lands. 29. " The Greymouth Harbour Board Act 1884 Amendment Act, 1902."- —Conferring leasing powers on the Boards. 30. "The Tauranga Educational Endowment Reserves Act, 1902." —Amending "The Tauranga Educational Endowment Reserves Act, 1896."

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Private Act. 1. "The Hawera County Electric Lighting Act, 1902."—Enabling the Hawera County Electric Company (Limited) to supply electrical energy for lighting and other purposes in the Hawera Borough and surrounding districts.

No. 26. (No. 91.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 27th October, 1902. 1 have the honour to acknowledge receipt of your circular despatch, dated the 10th July, 1902, referring to a letter from the Russian Ambassador to the Marquess of Lansdowne asking for information respecting colonial legislation in regard to accidents caused by agricultural machinery and precautions for their prevention. I have the honour to enclose you a copy of pamphlet of the New Zealand Labour Laws (third edition), containing " Accidents Compensation Act, 1901," Inspection of Machinery Acts, and "Workers' Compensation for Accidents Act, 1901 " ; and, separately, copy of " Workers' Compensation for Accidents Act Amendment Act, 1902.*" I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, ROBERT STOUT, Secretary of State for the Colonies. Deputy Governor.

A.- , " No. 29.

No. 27. (No. 93.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 19th November, 1902. Referring to your despatch, No. 2, of the 4th January, 1902, relating to postage rates between New Zealand and Oceania, I have the honour to state :— (1.) That my Ministers regret that the French Government has not seen its way to accede to the arrangements proposed. (2.) They suggest that a unilateral arrangement might be come to under which letters prepaid Id. in New Zealand for each half-ounce might be accepted as deliverable in the Oceanic possessions without surcharge, the French Post Office continuing to charge correspondence from tbeir possessions at the present rates. (3.) The French Government seem unaware that the Government of New Zealand specially subsidise a steamer for carrying mails between New Zealand and Tahiti. (4.) My Ministers hope that this modified proposal will be submitted to the French Government, and that, seeing there is in New Zealand a subsidised mailsteamer between this colony and Tahiti, this proposal may be accepted. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, ROBERT STOUT, Secretary of State for the Colonies. Deputy Governor.

A.-2, 1902, No. 109.

No. 28. (No. 99.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 15th December, 1902. In reply to your despatch No. 90, dated the 4th September, 1902, respecting certain certificates said to have been required by my Government from His Majesty's Consul-General at San Francisco, I have the honour to inform you that, so far as my Ministers are aware, no such certificates are required by this Government, nor are they required by their Honours the Judges of the Supreme Court of New Zealand in connection with proceedings in the Courts. My Government think that Mr. Bennett must have been mistaken in mentioning New Zealand in connection with this subject. I have, &c. The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RAN FURL Y. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A—2, 1903. No. 39.

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No. 29. (No. 98.) Sib,— Wellington, 15th December, 1902. I have the honour to acknowledge receipt of your despatch (New Zealand, General), dated the 24th October, 1902, relative to the further postponement of the International Telegraph Conference, which it is now proposed to hold in London on the 26th May, 1903. 2. I have further the honour to inform you that my Government will accept the invitation to attend, and have nominated on behalf of New Zealand the Agent-General for the Colony, the Hon. W. P. Reeves, to be associated with a delegate of the British Post Office. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1903, No. 51.

No. BO. (No. 100.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 15th December, 1902. In reply to your circular despatch of the 20th September, 1902, relative to regulations governing the grant of Volunteer long-service decorations, I have the honour to inform you that my Government will take the necessary steps to amend their regulations in accordance with the Royal warrant. I will forward the revised regulations when received from the Defence Department. • I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANEURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 31. (No. 2.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 6th January, 1903. I have been requested by my Premier to inform you that, when in England, he made an application to the War Office for some of the trophies of the war to be supplied to New Zealand, more especially two field guns that were captured by the Seventh Contingent. My Government hope that this matter is receiving attention, and that a fair proportion of trophies may be sent to this colony. They are quite prepared to pay cost of freight, &c. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 32. (No. 4) Sib, — Government House, Wellington, 10th January, 1903. With reference to your despatch (New Zealand, General) dated the 9th September, 1902, on the subject of the Insured Letter Agreement, I have the honour to inform you that my Government state that there is no demand in this colony for the introduction of the arrangement for the insurance of letters ; the liberal scheme of insurance in connection with the parcel post being, in their opinion, sufficient to meet all reasonable wants. They have therefore decided to defer the further consideration of the insured letter system for the present. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. 33. (No. 6.) Sir, — Government House,. Wellington, 30th January, 1903. With reference to your despatches on the subject of the practice of the learned professions in the Transvaal and Orange River Colony, I have the honour, at the request of my Government, to forward you copies of a Bill to amend the New Zealand Law Practitioners Act, to provide for the admission in New Zealand without examination, in certain cases, of barristers and solicitors admitted elsewhere. It is the intention of my Ministers to introduce the Bill during the ensuing session of Parliament, and I should be glad to be informed whether, if this Bill becomes law, an Order in Council applying the provisions of the Colonial Solicitors Act to New Zealand will be issued. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902 No. 44.

No. 31. (No. 7.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, Ist February, 1903. With reference to your despatches on the subject of penny-post agreements, I have the honour to request that the Federal Council of the Swiss Confederation be advised that an agreement has been concluded between His Majesty's Government and the following places for the acceptance, without surcharge, of letters from New Zealand prepaid at the rate of Id. for each halfounce : Chili, Nicaragua, Liberia, Paraguay, Portugal and Portuguese Colonies, Siam. 2. The position in connection with the Peruvian agreement has been duly noted by my Government, and steps will be taken to reopen the question. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 35. (No. 8.) Sir, — . Government House, Wellington, 2nd February, 1903. With reference to your circular despatch dated 21st April, 1902, relative to the Brussels Sugar Bounties Conference, I have the honour to inform you that my Government do not desire application to be made on behalf of this colony for permission to adhere to the Convention. I have, &c.j The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 36. (No. 11.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 6th February, 1903. I have the honour to forward you a copy of a despatch sent by Lieut.Colonel Gudgeon, British Resident at Rarotonga, to the Hon. the Minister for Trade and Customs, in whose department the administration of affairs in these islands now rests. The offer of Ngamaru, Ariki, of the Island of Pakutea to His Majesty, if accepted, would solve the difficult problem of dealing with the few criminals in these islands, as from Lieut.-Colonel Gudgeon's report it would be a suitable place for a penal settlement, and, the island being fertile, would provide suitable labour for prisoners.

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I have the honour to inform you that my Government favour the acceptance of this offer. I have not personally seen this island,"and have no information beyond the despatch to enable me to form an opinion. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Enclosure. Sm, — Earotonga, Cook Islands, 23rd December, 1902. I have the honour to inform you that on the 19th instant Ngamaru, the Chief Ariki of Atiu, Mauke, and Atiu, caused the title of the Island of Pakutea to be investigated by the Court. There was really no question as to the ownership, and the island, comprising some 400 acres of very fertile land, was awarded to Ngamaru. Immediately after the Court had made the order Ngamaru rose, and, calling on the Arikis, Makea, Paruarangi, and Eongomatane, to witness his act, said, " This island I hand over to my Ariki, His Majesty King Edward, for the benefit of his subjects in this group " ; and he added, " I wish the Court to write this in their books, in order that there may be no mistake." This island, if properly planted, will be valuable, and as a penal settlement will be most useful. I have therefore the honour to recommend the acceptance of this generous offer. I have, &c. The Hon. the Minister for Trade and Customs. W. E. Gudgeon.

No. 37. (No. 13.) . Sir,— Government House, Wellington, 7th February, 1903. With reference to your despatch circular of Bth July, 1902, relative to the marriage and divorce laws, I have the honour to inform you that no change has been made in the marriage laws since Lord Glasgow's despatch of the Bth December, 1903, except the passing of " The Deceased Husband's Brother Marriage Act, 1900," which came into force on the 22nd May, 1901. With regard to divorce, I have the honour to enclose a memorandum giving a short summary of the conditions on which it is granted; also a copy of "An Act to amend the Law of Divorce, 1898; " the Rules and Regulations (Supreme Court of New Zealand) ; and " The Deceased Husband's Brother Marriage Act, 1900." These should be substituted for that portion of the enclosure to Lord Glasgow's despatch dealing with the divorce question. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 38. (No. 18.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 21st February, 1903. With reference to your despatch (New Zealand, No. 81) dated the 15th August, 1902, on the subject of the medical examination of third-class passengers before departure from New Zealand, I have the honour to inform you that instructions have been issued to the port Health Officers to examine all such passengers leaving this colony for Great Britain, and that any suffering from consumption shall, if possible, be berthed in a cabin by themselves. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. 39. (No. 19.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 23rd February, 1903. With reference to your despatch (New Zealand, No. 131) dated the 16th December, 1902, on the subject of treasure lost on the ship " General Grant," I have the honour to inform you that the gold referred to is part of the wreck of the " General Grant," and unclaimed wreck belongs to the Crown ; but the true owner can obtain it if he establishes his ownership within twelve months after it comes into the possession of the Receiver of Wrecks under " The New Zealand Shipping and Seamen's Act, 1877." If he does not do so, its proceeds, less expenses of salvage, &c, goes into the Public Account under the provisions of section 279 of the Act quoted above. The finder, not being the owner, must deliver it to the Receiver, and is entitled to salvage. If the finder is also the owner, he must notify the Receiver. If the gold is found, it must be delivered to the Receiver of Wrecks in terms of the Act. I have the honour to further inform you that I have been to the Auckland Islands and have seen the spot where the wreck is supposed to have taken place. The cliffs have fallen in, and there seems no chance of locating the pi*esent position of the wreck, the water being deep, the seas very heavy, and the coastline dangerous. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1903 No. 63.

No. 40. (No. 24) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 14th March, 1903. I have the honour to inform you, in further reply to your despatch (No. 32, of 1899), relative to the gold and silver entered for export from New Zealand, that the following are the returns for the year ending fcbe 31st December, 1902 :— Gold, 508.0450z.= 15,802-33 kilograms; value, £1,951,433. Silver, 673,9860z.= 20,963-79 kilograms; value, £72,001. I have, &c. The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 41. (No. 27.) Sir, — Government Wellington, 19th March, 1903. I have the honour to inform you that my Government are considering the question of establishing a training-ship for hoys. The ship they desire to have is of the class of H.M.S. ,: Lizard," and they wish to obtain authentic information as to the probable cost of equipment, also the number, rank, and pay of the necessary officers, petty officers, and men that would be employed on such a training vessel in home waters My Government would also be glad for any information as regards accommodation, dietary, and annual up-keep, with any data that would assist them to make provision in the departmental estimates for the maintenance of such a vessel. I have the honour further to inform you that they do not propose that the training-ship should be stationary, but that the complement should be sufficient for the boys to receive actual sea training. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. 42. (No. 29.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 6th April, 1903. With reference to your despatch (New Zealand, Honours) dated 16th January, 1903, forwarding me five insignia of the Companionship of the Distinguished Service Order, I have the honour to inform you that one officer mentioned, Lieutenant W. V. Townley, is unknown in New Zealand. I communicated with the Governor-General of the Commonwealth, who has replied that " there is Lieutenant W. V. Townley, of the late .Fifth Queensland Imperial Bushmen, hut there is no record of him being awarded Order." Under the circumstances, therefore, I beg to return you the Order for Lieutenant Townley, together with the warrant and statutes. 2. With reference to the Order for Lieutenant D. A. Hickie, I have the honour to inform you that I publicly presented this to him at Christchurch on the 20th ultimo, on the occasion of the unveiling of a memorial tablet at the Boys' High School to those boys who had served in the South African War. The Order for the late Lieutenant Tudor was handed to his sister at the same time. 3. I hope next month, when in Auckland, to present the remaining Orders to Majors Abbott and Bartlett and Captain Stevenson. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANTURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 43. (No. 30.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 11th April, 1903. I have the honour, at the request of my Government, to call your attention to a matter that appears to bear somewhat hardly on some of those New Zealanders who took part in the late South African war. His Majesty's medal is granted for long service and conclusion of the war, under the following conditions, that: (a.) They were actually serving in South Africa on or after the Ist January, 1902. (b.) That on that date they had completed eighteen months' war service, or subsequently completed such service before the Ist June, 1902. Under these conditions many men who had no service in the earlier stages of the campaign, or in Her late Majesty's reign, receive the King's medal, and also the Queen's ; yet on the other hand many of those who served more than eighteen months, and commenced serving in the early stages of the war, but who were not serving on or after Ist January, 1902, receive only the Queen's medal. My Ministers inform me that it the issue of the King's medal were to all who had served for a certain period during His Majesty's reign it would give great satisfaction, and they express the hope that this may be favourably considered. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies. Approximate Cost of Paper.— Preparation, not given ; printing (1,375 copies), *8 2s.

By Authority : John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington.—l9o3 Price, 9d.]

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