REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS M TO Z COMMITTEE. (Mr. BUDDO, Chairman.)

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1903 Session I, I-02

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1903. NEW ZEALAND.

REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS M TO Z COMMITTEE. (Mr. BUDDO, Chairman.)

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

ORDER OP REFERENCE. Extract from the Journals of the House of Representatives. Friday, the 3rd Day of July, 1903. Ordered, " That a Public Petitions M to Z Committee, consisting of ten members, be appointed to consider all petitions that may be referred to it by the Petitions Classification Committee ; to olassify and prepare abstracts of such petitions in such form and manner as shall appear to it best suited to convey to this House all requisite information respecting their contents, and to report the same from time to tim<> to this House, and to have power to report its opinions and observations thereupon to this House; also to have power to call for persons and papers ; three to be a quorum: the Committee to consist of Mr. Alison, Mr. Bennet, Mr. Buddo, Mr. Davey, Mr. Fowlds, Mr. W. Fraser, Mr. Rhodes, Mr. Rutherford, Mr. Smith, and the mover." —(Hon. Mr. Mills.)

INDEX.

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No. Petition. Page. No. Petition. Page. 441 363 863 244 442 877 174 884 322 867 362 869 400 10 Andrew, Thomas, and 77 others Andrews, S. P., and 3 others Atkinson, R. C, and 9 others Bell, N. H., and 7,218 others Birch, A., and 97 others Bond, E., and another.. Brass, G. S., and 4 others 6 7 10 5, 6 6 10 3 10 5 10 7 10 9 8 342 446 267 726 61 116 370 447 142 121 321 307 830 212 687 875 MoDermott, P, McDonald, D., and 72 others .. McDonald, R. A., and 14 others McDonald, J. K. McGibbon, J., and Co., and 113 others .. McGregor, G. .. Mclntyre, W. . McKay, W., and 65 others McMenamin, J. Merry, Alice Meikle, J. J. .. Moeller, 0. Murray, J. H., and 449 others Myers, J. S. .. Myers, J. S. .. J. S. .. 5 6 9 10 5 4 7 6 4 4 5 6 10 4 10 11 Carr, T. G., and 4 others Chapman,' P., and 4,366 others Church, Lieutenant, and 7 others Clark, L. E., and 3 others Clow, T. R., and 16 others Collington, A., and 15 others Cooper, W. H., and 31 others (and 82 similar petitions re Bank of New Zealand) Final report 11 403 697 Newlyn, J. H. Noble, W., and another 9 9 392 444 37 445 Harris, W., and 8 others Hiscock, F., and 48 others Holcroft, H. 0., and 28 others Hopkins, Olivia, and 34 others .. 7 6 5 6 723 730 148 O'Dwyer, P., and 19 others Old, J., and 10 others .. Oldfield, Elizabeth Jane 9 9 4 44 Kerr Bros., and 18 others 5 402 729 570 35 1 211 772 178 851 184 438 879 Page, S., and another Pain, J. A. Parker, H. .. Pascoe, J. G. .. Paton, J. A., and 83 others Patterson, J. .. Patten, Gandace Peters, J. Petrie, M. .. Pettigrew, G., and 23 others Powell, J. H., and others Pratt, M. A. R., and another 7 10 7 2 5, 6 4 10 4 10 5 6 10 889 Laws, C. H., and another 10 857 33 890 448 70 397 MacDougall, Alexander Mackenzie, Jessie, and 21 others Macky, J. W., and 223 others Macphail, R. C. A,, and 13 others Mayor of Wellington Mayors of Roslyn, Mornington, and Maori Hill Mayo, G. C., and 34 others McAlester, P., and 9 others (with 16 similar petitions re Kawakawa Railway) McAnally, G. .. .. McCaskill, J. M. 11 2 10 6 3 7 761 288 9 5 101 163 !76) !77t !78) 8 7 39 Qualter, M., and 12 others 2 McClusky, A. J. 6 102 637 17 316 Redding, J. Redmond, W., and 4 others Reeoe, W. .. Reece, W., and 27 others 2 7 3 7

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INDEX— continued.

EEPOETS.

No. 33.—Petition of Jessie Mackenzie and 21 Others, of Auckland. Petitioners pray that separate provision be made for the shelter and management of imbecile persons who are already inmates of the various asylums, &c. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the time has arrived when provision should be made for separate institutions for weak-minded or imbecile and idiotic persons who at present, through the want of more suitable accommodation, are sent to the lunatic asylums, where they are unavoidably associated with patients who are under treatment for insanity and where, also, no attempt is made towards classification or improvement by means of training and education ; and, further, that from the evidence before them the Committee is of the opinion that there is urgent necessity for immediate action being taken by the Government in the matter. 17th July, 1903.

No. 35. —Petition of John George Pascoe, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that he may be granted compensation for loss of office as sanitary officer, Government Buildings. I am directed to report that, after hearing the petitioner and having considered the evidence, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 17th July, 1903.

No. 42. —Petition of John Kunciman, of Paemako. Petitioner prays for a grant for military services rendered to the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 17th July, 1903.

No. 39.—Petition of Michael Qualter and 12 Others, of Dunedin. Petitioners state that they have suffered pecuniary loss, and have been deprived of their means of living, through the severe administration of the Licensing Act. They pray for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee, having considered the circumstances of the case, has no recommendation to make. 17th July, 1903.

No. 102.—Petition of James Bedding, of Tuakau. Petitioner prays that he may be given a grant of land on account of military services rendered to the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 17th July, 1903.

No. 159. —Petition of Thomas Verry and 58 Others, of Mickeytown. Petitioners pray that a post-office may be established at Mickeytown. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 21st July, 1903. j

fo. Petition. Page. No. Petition. Page. 411 221 3 465 42 Eeid, Major J. Richardson, W. A. Robinson, J., and 113 others Ross, H., and 89 others Runciman, J. .. 7 6 5 (i 2 707 566 207 332 888 Tildesley, E., and 17 others Ting, Joe, and 13 others Toomey, N. .. Triggs, W. H., and 22 others .. Turnbull, J., and another Verry, T., and 58 others Vogel, Lady It) 8 9 7 10 303 79 123 422 149 866 104 443 60 9 880 Saunders, S., and 35 others Scott, T., and 13 others Scott, T., and 138 others (see also I.-2a.) Silk, H. N., and 77 others Simpson, E. .. Slater, M., and 21 others Smith, T. H. .. Smith, G. A , and 53 others Spedderi, J. .. Spencer, W., and 51 others ... Spiers, R. M., and another 7 3 6 7 4 10 6 8 3 10 159 226 200 175 868 862 572 762 341 711 721 Waghorn, R. .. Warner, H. N. Watson, J., and 9 others Wells, Ada, and 27 others Westphal, C., and 2 others Wheatley, A., and 196 others .. Willacy, H. .. Williams, H. W., and 421 others Williams, H. W., and 174 others 2 9 5 3 10 10 9 II 5 9 9 198 594 584 Taylor, C, and 21 others Taylor, Annie.. Thompson, P. 3 7 9 90 Youle, T. T., and 77 others 4

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No. 17. —Petition of William Reecb, Chairman Ghristchurch Tramway Board. Petitionee prays that he may be granted a remission of Customs duty on electrical machinery imported for the construction of tramways in the Christehurch Tramways District, which machinery cannot be satisfactorily made in the colony. I am directed to report that, having considered the petition and evidence tendered on the question, the Committee is of the opinion that the proposed electrical tramways are a public work for the public benefit, and therefore recommends the Government to place a sum of money on the estimates sufficient to refund the duty on the various necessary appliances imported for the work. *22nd July, 1903.

No. 79. —Petition of Thomas Scott and 13 Others, of Dunedin City Council. Petitionebs pray that they may be granted a remission of Customs duty on electrical machinery imported for the construction of tramways in the City of Dunedin, which machinery cannot be satisfactorily made in the colony. I am directed to report that, having considered the petition and evidence tendered on the question, the Committee is of the opinion that the proposed tramways are a public work and for the public benefit, and therefore recommends the Government to place a sum of money on the estimates sufficient to refund the duty on the various necessary appliances imported for the work. *22nd July, 1903.

No. 70. —Petition of His Worship the Mayob, Wellington City Corporation. Petitionee prays that he may be granted a remission of Customs duty on electrical machinery imported for the construction of tramways in the City of Wellington, which machinery cannot be satisfactorily made in the colony. I am directed to report that, having considered the petition and evidence tendered on the question, the Committee is of the opinion that the proposed tramways are a public work for the public benefit, and therefore recommends the Government to place a sum of money on the estimates sufficient to refund the duty on the various necessary appliances imported for the work. *22nd July, 1903.

No. 104.—Petition of Thomas Hawkins Smith, of Maketu. Petitioneb states that he obtained judgment in the S.M.s Court, at Maketu, for certain moneys due to him ; that the same were collected by the Bailiff of the Court, but that he has not yet been paid the full amount so collected, and he prays that he may be paid the balance owing, and the costs incurred in connection therewith. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has not received the full amount claimed by him, and, as the evidence goes to show that the Bailiff received the same, the Department should pay to the petitioner the said amount. 23rd July, 1903.

No. 175. —Petition of Hoeatio Nelson Wabnee, of Auckland. Petitionee prays that he may be granted compensation on account of his past services in the Government of New Zealand. I am directed to report that this Committee, having considered the long service rendered by the petitioner, recommends the Government to grant him a compassionate allowance of £200. 28th July, 1903.

No. 174. —Petition of Chables S. Beass, and 4 Others, of Invercargill. Petitionebs state that they have suffered pecuniary loss, and have been deprived of their means of living, through the severe administration of the Licensing Act. They pray for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee, having considered the circumstances of the case, has no recommendation to make. 28th July, 1903.

No. 9. —Petition of William Spencee and 51 Others, of the Bluff, &c. Petitionebs pray that the right to a landing-place at the Bluff Harbour may be restored to them, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government. 28th July, 1903.

No. 198. —Petition of Chables Tayloe and 21 Others, of Christehurch. Petitionebs pray that legislation may be passed to place the election of members of Education Boards on the basis of popular representation. I am directed to report that, as the matter is a question of public policy, the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 4th August, 1903.

* Debate on consideration of report interrupted by 5.30 adjournment on 22nd July.

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No. 90.—Petition of Thomas T. Youle and 77 Others, of Nireaha. Pbtitionbks pray that the medical fees charged in outlying districts may be fixed by regulation. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 4th August, 1903.

No. 212. —Petition of John Scott Myees, of Marshlands, Canterbury. Petitioner prays that compensation may be awarded him on account of alleged injuries he has sustained, &c. I am directed to report that this Committee reaffirms the resolution reported to the House on the 30th October, 1901—viz., " That as the petitioner has now been before the Committee on several occasions, and as every opportunity has been given him for fully stating his case, the Committee is of opinion that the petitioner has no just grounds for complaint, and has no claim for further inquiry." 4th August, 1903.

No. 142. —Petition of John McMenamin, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for further compensation for injuries received while working in a ballast-pit at Sergeant's Hill, &c. I am directed to report that as the petitioner has received the sum of £200, on the recommendation of a Committee in 1891, and a further sum of £100, recommended in 1897, the latter amount to be in final settlement of all claims, the Committee has no further recommendation to make. sth August, 1903.

No. 211. —Petition of James Patterson, of Invercargill. Petitioner prays that he may receive a grant on account of military services rendered to the colony. I am directed to report that, in the absence of any evidence substantiating petitioner's claim, the Committee has no recommendation to make. sth August, 1903.

No. 121.—Petition of Alice Merry, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that she may be granted further compensation in connection with her property taken by the Wellington Harbour Board, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee, having heard the evidence submitted in the case of the petitioner, finds that the provisions of the Public Works Act have been complied with, and, the petitioner having failed to take advantage of the provision for a rehearing within the time prescribed by the Act, the Committee has no recommendation to make. sth August, 1903.

No. 178.—Petition of John Petebs, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for further inquiry into the matter of his having been committed to the Porirua Asylum, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee, having carefully considered the statements of the petitioner and the papers submitted by him, is of the opinion the petitioner is evidently labouring under a sense of injustice, but the Committee has failed to discover any substantial reason for the same, and therefore has no recommendation to make. sth August, 1903.

No. 148. —Petition of Elizabeth Jane Oldfield, of New Plymouth. Petitioner prays for a compassionate allowance on account of her late husband's services in the Lands Department, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 12th August, 1903.

No. 116.—Petition of Gregor McGregor, of Maxwelltown. Petitioner prays for a refund of the sum of £367 17s. 7d., paid as stamp-duty on certain deeds which became of no effect, &c. I am directed to report that, having heard evidence and fully considered the question, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 12th August, 1903.

No. 149.—Petition of Edward Simpson, of Thames. Petitioner states that he was injured while working on the Government railway tunnel at Karangahake. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for inquiry and consideration. 14th August, 1903.

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No. 341.— Petition of Heney Willacy, of Eotorua. Petitioner states that he was injured while acting as bath-attendant at Eotorua. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee "reaffirms the resolutions of 1901 and 1902 — viz., " That the Committee has no recommendation to make." 14th August, 1903.

Nos. 1, 3, 37, 44, 61, and 184.—Petitions of J. A. Paton and 83 Others, of Christchurch; J. Eobinson and 113 Others, of Christchurch ; H. C. Holceopt and 28 Others, of Bangiora; Keee Beos. and 18 Others, of Ashburton ; J. McGibbon and Co. and 113 Others, of Gore ; George Pettigrew and 23 Others, of Timaru ; &c. Petitionebs pray that the necessary legislation may be passed to suppress the use of coupons in packets and packages of tea and other goods. I am directed to report that the Committee, having heard evidence for and against the use of coupons, has no recommendation to make. 20th August, 1903.

No. 244. —Petition of N. Harper Bell and 7,218 others, of Dunedin. Petitionebs pray that legislation may not be passed suppressing the use of coupons in packets or packages of tea and other goods. I am directed to report that the Committee, having heard evidence for and against the use of coupons, has no recommendation to make. 20th August, 1903.

No. 342. —Petition of Peter McDermott, of Towai. Petitioneb prays that he may receive a grant of land for military services rendered to the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 20th August, 1903. _

No. 288. —Petition of P. McAlester and 9 Others, of Bay of Islands (and 16 similar Petitions as per attached Schedule). Petitioners pray that a sufficient sum of money be placed on the estimates to continue the railway from Kawakawa southwards to the Eamarama Valley. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 20th August, 1903.

Schedule. No. 289.— J. L. Morris and 38 others, of Opua. I No. 297.— T. R, Williams and 99 others, of Russell. „ 290.— W. Atkinson and 64 others, pf Waimate North, i „ 298.— H. S. Ludbrook and 23 others, of Ohaeawai. „ 291.— J. Andrews and 97 others, of Oponini. I „ 299.—George Clendon and 40 others, of Rawene. „ 292.—5. Mountain and 12 others, of Purerua. „ 300. D. B. Wallace and 58 others, of Kohukohu. . 293.— W. MoLeod and 30 others, of Taheke. ; „ 323.—A. W. Edwards and 46 others, of Kaokohe. „ 294.— W. W, Ludbrook and 28 others, of Pakaraka. '■ „ 324.—V. H. Reed and 126 others, of Kawakawa. „ 295. —James Mackereth and 67 others, of Okaihau. ' „ 325.— W. N. Clark and 29 others, of Waipapa. „ 296.— T. H. Hayes and 52 others, of Kako. ; „ 326.— T. Fleming, and 36 others, of Saies.

No. 200.—Petition of Eowland Waghorn, of Dunedin. Petitioner prays that he may be granted compensation for the losses sustained by him through the closing of Stuart Street, Dunedin, by the Government, for railway purposes, and other relief. I am directed to report that the Committee is satisfied that the petitioner has suffered considerable loss through the closing of Stuart Street for railway purposes, and therefore recommends his case for the favourable consideration of the Government. Ist September, 1903.

No. 322. —Petition of Peecy Chapman, and 4,366 Others, of New Zealand. Petitionebs pray that effect may be given to the recommendations of the Public Petitions M to Z Committee, dated the 9th October, 1895, and 14th July, 1896, on the case of John James Meikle, of Southland, and that Meikle's name be removed from the prison records of the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee, having considered the petition of Percy Chapman and others asking that the name of John James Meikle be removed from the prison records of the colony, is unable to see how it can be given effect to, and have therefore no recommendation to make. Ist September, 1903.

No. 321.—Petition of John James Meikle, of Southland. Petitioner prays that he may be compensated for the loss he has sustained in connection with his business, the legal costs incurred in defending charges preferred against him, and for imprisonment suffered; and also for an inquiry into the matter of the alleged forgery of a certain document, &c.

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I am directed to report that this Committee, having gone carefully into the petitioner's case, is of opinion that the document referred to in the petition is not genuine, but from the evidence submitted has no reason to believe that the petitioner is in any way responsible for the same. Eegarding the petitioner's claim for further compensation, your Committee has no recommendation to make. Ist September, 1903.

Petitions Reconsidered. The reports on the petitions of J. A. Paton, and others, and five similar petitions, and on the petition of N. H. Bell, and others, for and against the use of coupons in connection with the sale of packets and packages of tea and other goods, having been referred back by the House for reconsideration, — I am directed to report that the Committee, having reconsidered the subject-matter of the petitions referred to, adheres to its previous finding, reported to the House on the 20th August last—viz., " That the Committee, having heard evidence for and against the use of coupons, has no recommendation to make." * Bth September, 1903.

No. 123. —Petition of Thomas Scott and Others, of Dunedin. Petitioners pray that assistance may be granted the Dunedin Free Kindergarten Association, by subsidy or by annual grant. I am directed to report that the Committee, having heard the evidence regarding the kindergarten work being done in Dunedin, is of opinion that it is of great value to the State, and would recommend to the favourable consideration of the Government the question of granting a subsidy to work of this kind throughout the colony; and that the evidence of James Allen, Esq., M.H.R., and H. D. Bedford, Esq., M.H.R., together with a letter from Rev. Mr. Waddell, be printed and added to this report. (Vide Appendix 1.-2 a.) 15th September, 1903.

Nos. 276, 277, and 278. —Petition of Adam John McClusky, of Auckland. Petitioner prays —First, that an inquiry may be held into his case, and for compensation, &c.; second, that he may be granted compensation for loss of office as constable, &c.; third, that he may be granted compensation for loss of office as prison warder, &c. I am directed to report that, having heard the evidence of the petitioner, and carefully considered the departmental papers, together with the evidence of the Inspector of Prisons, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 15th September, 1903.

Nos. 441, 442, 443, 444, 445, 446, 447, 448, and 465. —Petitions of Thomas Andrew and 77 Others, Albert Birch and 97 Others, G. A. Smith and 53 Others, Frank Hiscock and 48 Others, Olivia Hopkins and 34 Others, D. McDonald and 72 Others, W. McKay and 65 Others, R. C. A. Macphail and 13 Others, and Hugh Ross and 89 Others, of Otago. Petitioners pray for the extension of the railway from Lawrence to Roxburgh. I am directed to report that, as this railway seems to be in a position of equal importance with many others advocated in the other provinces of the colony, the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 15th September, 1903.

No. 438.—Petition ot J. H. Powell and Others, of Charleston. Petitioners pray that inquiry be made into the mining-rate of that district, and that relief be granted them. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, this petition should be referred to the Goldfields and Mines Committee. 15th September, 1903.

No. 307. —Petition of Chaeles Moeller, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that he may be granted a compensation on account of his long service in the Marine Department. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 22nd September, 1903.

No. 221. —Petition of William Aihey Richardson, of Tarradale. Petitioner prays that he may be granted an annuity for military services rendered to the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee strongly recommends the petition be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 22nd September, 1903.

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No. 637. —Petition of William Ebdmond ami 4 Others, of Newtown, Wellington. Petitioners, who are occupiers of hotels in the Newtown Electorate which are now closed through the refusal of the Licensing Committee to renew the licenses for the same, pray that they may be allowed to continue their business under some statutory authority until the appeal to the Privy Council now pending shall have been settled. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion the present position of the petitioners is due to defects in the Eegulation of Local Elections Act, and recommends the Government to bring down legislation to remedy such defects, particularly in regard to providing for a second poll being taken in all such cases where a poll has been declared void. *29th September, 1903.

No. 594. —Petition of Annie Taylor, of Nelson. Petitioner prays that a special remission of the sentence passed on her husband on the 2nd day of December, 1902, may be granted. I am directed to report that as the subject of the petition, Joseph Taylor, was unable through a technicality to have his case referred to the Appeal Court, the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 29th September, 1903.

No. 422. —Petition of Herbert N. Silk and 77 Others, of Taranaki. Petitioners pray that certain work may be done in their district, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 2nd October, 1903.

Nos. 303, 316, 332, 362, 363, 392, and 402. — Petitions of S. Saunders and 35 Others, William Eeece and 27 Others, W. H. Tbiggs and 22 Others, L. E. Clark and 3 Others, S. P. Andrews and 3 Others, W. Harris and 8 Others, and Sam Page and Another, of Canterbury. Petitioners pray that Professor Bickerton's theory of constructive impact may be referred to a committee of Australasian scientists with a request that they will thoroughly investigate and report upon the same. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the prayer of the petitions be referred to the Government for consideration. 2nd October, 1903.

No. 397. —Petition of the Mayors of Eoslyn, Mornington, and Maori Hill, Dunedin. Petitioners pray that a branch railway may be constructed up the Kaikorai Valley. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 2nd October, 1903.

No. 163. —Petition of John Malcolm McCaskill, of Hikutaia. Petitioner prays that he may be granted compensation for loss of property sustained during the Maori war, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 2nd October, 1903.

No. 370.—Petition of William Mclntyre, of Whangarei. Petitioner prays that he may be granted compensation for services rendered to the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 2nd October, 1903.

No. 411—Petition of Major James Eeid, of Hamilton. Petitioner prays that he may be granted the usual retiring-allowance for loss of office as Adjutant for the Auckland Volunteer District. I am directed to report that, in view of all the circumstances of the case, the Committee recommends to the favourable consideration of the Government the matter of granting the petitioner the sum of £50. 6th October, 1903.

No. 570. —Petition of Henry Parker, of Waiuku. Petitioner prays that he may be granted compensation for loss of office as district constable. I am directed to report that the Committee reaffirms the resolution reported to the House on the 23rd August, 1900, on a similar petition—viz., " That the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration." 6th October, 1903.

* Debate on consideration of Report interrupted by 5.30 adjournment, 29th September.

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No. 101.—Petition of George McAnally, of Mercer. Petitionbe prays for relief on account of his dismissal from the Telegraph Department as lineman in the year 1882. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 6th October, 1903.

No. 60.—Petition of James Speddeei, of Gimmerburn. Petitioner prays that he may be granted the freehold of Section 25, Block 1., Gimmerburn Survey District, &c. « I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the payment of the sum of £60 in lieu of all claims. 6th October, 1903. No. 10.—Petition of W. H. Cooper and 31 Others (and 82 similar Petitions as per attached Schedule). Petitioners pray that steps may be taken to obtain possession of the Bank of New Zealand for the purpose of making it absolutely and entirely a State bank. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petitioners that the Bank of New Zealand be made absolutely and entirely a State Bank, but that it be a recommendation to the Government that any State support granted to the Bank of New Zealand at the close of the existing arrangement be in the nature of the colony joining as a shareholder and retaining a proportionate control in the management of the bank. 6th October, 1903.

Schedule. No. 40.— R. Mcllroy and 30 others. No. 333.— F. C. Smith and 30 others. 45.—James Daly and 33 others. . „ 334.— J. H. Davidson and 29 others. 92.—John Foster and 33 others. „ 335.— J. Commons and 31 others. „ 93. —Robert Muir and 32 others. „ 348. —H. Ambridge and 14 others. „ 94.—Andrew Bell and 31 others. „ 349.— E. H. Ford and 17 others. „ 117.— H. Williams and 29 others. „ 350.—George H. Buokeridge and 50 others. „ 124.— R. Dodds and 65 others. „ 355.—Francis Quigley and 31 others. „ 125.—Thomas Menzies and 15 others. „ 356. —Charles MoKenzie and 97 others. „ 133.— R. Long and 13 others. „ 374.—A. H. Hobbs and 32 others. „ 138.— J. S. Myers and 32 others. „ 375.—C. Gregg and 31 others. „ 154.—P. E. Pedersen and 32 others. „ 376.—L. Dasler and 30 others. „ 179.— R. J. Thomas and 26 others. „ 377.— W. Gardiner and 28 others. „ 180.— W. L. Sohroeder and 30 others. „ 378.— W. McDowell and 30 others. „ 181.—James Inkster and 30 others. „ 417. —W. M. Johnstone and 36 others. „ 196.—Catherine Treadwell and 31 others. „ 418.—A. S. Price and 63 others. „ 197.— J. Mitchell and 28 others. „ 419.— J. T. Ward and 12 others. „ 213.— W. H. Townsend and 26 others. „ 420.— R. Kemp and 31 others. „ 214.—James Thomson and 24 others. „ 425.— W. E. Davie and 16 others. „ 215. —N. Naismith and 31 others. „ 426.—Joseph Gibson and 30 others. „ 216.—A. T. Lenon and 31 others. „ 427.—A. Ireland and 22 others. ~ 234.—P. Nolan and 29 others. „ 430.— W. Caldwell and 23 others. „ 235. —H. Hunter and 16 others. „ 431. —A. McCallum and 29 others. „ 236. —R. Ruebridge and 57 others. „ 432. —John Kennedy and 31 others. „ 237.—Adam Werner and 31 others. „ 433.—D. G. Ennis and 31 others. „ 238.— F. W. Keen and 31 others. „ 435.— H. Barrett and 31 others. „ 260.—John Applegarth and 62 others. „ 467.— J. W. Smith and 26 others. „ 261.— G. S. Fleming and 33 others. „ 468 —W. J. Fort and 25 others. „ 262.—A. W. Johnson and 32 others. „ 499.—Lewis Cohen and 80 others. „ 280.— W. J. Bell and 31 others. „ 508.—5. E. Anderson and 27 others. „ 281.— J. W. Atkin and 46 others. „ 527.— E. A. M. Leaver and 33 others. „ 282.— G. R. Whiting and 31 others. „ 571. —James Rennie and 31 others. „ 283. — J. Haynes and 59 others. „ 577. —M. Frater and 17 others. „ 284.— R. J. Bryers and 31 others. „ 587.— J. A. Sowden and 31 others. „ 285. —Agnes Palmer and 30 others. „ 609.—P. J. Small and 10 others. „ 286.— G. W. Williams and 32 others. „ 610.— T. Harrison and 7 others. „ 287. —A. Joyce and 30 others. „ 690.—John Barber and 33 others. „ 312.— E. Chetwin and 31 others. „ 691.—C. Connelly and 32 others. „ 313.— H. Parson and 33 others. „ 708. —P. McAlinden and 50 others. „ 314.— G. E. Jefireys and 28 others. „ 709.— J. A. Hebbet and 23 others. „ 330.— J. MoGlashan and 48 others. „ 734. —H. Hammond and 18 others. „ 331. — J. G. Browne and 31 others. „ 735. —Charles Charleson and 18 others.

No. 566.—Petition of Joe Ting and 13 Others, of Palmerston North. Petitioners, who are Chinese, state that the regulations under the Aliens Act only permit of a Stipendiary Magistrate certifying to their character when applying for letters of naturalisation. They pray that the said regulations may be amended. I am directed to report that this Committee is of opinion the demand for a certificate of character signed by a Stipendiary Magistrate before granting papers of naturalisation is a stretching of the law, and that all applications should be considered on their merits when accompanied by a certificate of character signed either by a Stipendiary Magistrate or a Justice of the Peace, as provided by " The Aliens Act, 1880." 9th October, 1903.

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No. 572. —Petition of Charles Wbstphal and 2 Others, of Auckland. Petitioners pray that members of friendly societies .may be admitted to any hospital subsidised by the Government at a reduced uniform charge. I am directed to report that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 13th October, 1903.

No. 403.—Petition of J. H. Newlyn, of Christchurch. Petitioneb prays for consideration on account of his having suggested the cheap-money scheme, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 13th October, 1903.

No. 584.—Petition of Feed. Thompson, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that he may be compensated for injuries received while in the lock-up and lunatic asylum, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 13th October, 1903.

No. 207. —Petition of Nicholas Toomey, of Waihi. Petitioner prays that he may be compensated for loss sustained in supplying timber to the Eailway and Telegraph Departments. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 13th October, 1903.

No. 400.—Petition of A. Collington and 15 Others, of Marlow. Petitioners pray that a sufficient sum of money be placed on the estimates to continue the railway from Kawakawa southwards to the Kamarama Valley. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 13th October, 1903.

No. 267.—Petitions of E. A. McDonald and 14 Others, of Helensville. Petitioners pray that the regulation in respect to the use of fishing-nets in the Kaipara Harbour may be amended. I am directed to report that, as the prayer of the petitioners has been acceeded to by the Department, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 13th October, 1903.

No. 226.—Petition of Lady Vogbl, of England. Petitioner prays that she may be granted certain commission alleged to have been due to her late husband, Sir Julius Vogel, on account of the conversion of the £1,600,000 loan, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 13th October, 1903.

No. 721.—Petitions of Hekbekt W. Williams and 174 Others, of Gisborne, &c. Petitioners pray that certain reforms may be made in the existing laws regulating the sale of alcoholic liquors in the colony, as suggested in this petition. I am directed to report that, as the petition deals with matters of public policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 16th October, 1903.

No. 711. —Petition of Herbert W. Williams, and 421 Others, of Gisborne, &c. Petitioners pray that certain reforms may be made in the existing laws regulating the sale of alcoholic liquors in the colony, as suggested in this petition. 1 am directed to report that, as the petition deals with matters of public policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 16th October, 1903.

No. 697. -Petition of William Noble and Another, of Bruce. Petitioners pray that the hotelkeepers in the Bruce Licensing District, who have been refused renewals of their licenses, may be allowed to carry on their business pending the decision of the Privy Council on the appeal in the Newtown case. 1 am directed to report that the Committee cannot see its way to recommend the prayer of the petition. 16th October, 1903.

Nos. 723, 730, and 761.—Petitions of P. O'Dwyee and 19 Others, John Old and 10 Others, G. C. Mayo and 34 Others, of Kawhia County. Petitioners pray that if the Kawhia County Act is brought into operation the Kawhia County may be subdivided, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petitions be referrred to the Government for consideration. 21st October, 1903. 2—l. 2.

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No. 772. —Petition of Candace Patten, of Christohurch. Pbtitioneb prays that she may be granted a compassionate allowance on account of her late husband's services in the Customs Department. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 27th October, 1903.

No. 729.—Petition of John A. Pain, of Martinborough. Petitioner prays that he may be granted the sum of £20, being an amount recommended by previous Committees. I am directed to report that the petition be referred to the Government, with a recommendation that the sum of £20 be paid to the petitioner. 27th October, 1903.

No. 726.—Petition of John Kinneab McDonald, of Waingaro. Petitioner prays that his claim for military services rendered to the colony may be settled without delay. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petitioner's claim be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 27th October, 1903.

No. 830.—Petition of J. H. Mueeay and 449 Others, of Te Kuiti, &c. Petitionbbs pray that the inhabitants of the King-country may be granted the same privileges with regard to licensed houses as are enjoyed by the inhabitants of other parts of the colony. I am directed to report that, as there is legislation before the House on the subject of this petition, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th November, 1903.

No. 707. —Petition of E. Tildesley and 17 Others, of Masterton County. Pbtitionbes, who are ratepayers in the Masterton County, pray that they may be included in the Mauriceville County. I am directed to report that, after having considered the prayer of the petition, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th November, 1903.

No. 687. —Petition of John Scott Myers, of Marshlands. Petitioner prays that the prayer of his former petition may be reconsidered, &c. I am directed to report that, having further considered the petition of J. S. Myers and made inquiry into the objections to the Committee's previous finding, this Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th November, 1903. .

No. 851.—Petition of Martin Peteie, of Mangorei. Petitioner prays for an inquiry into the reason why he was not granted a loan on his property by the Government Life Insurance Department. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th November, 1903.

Nos. 862, 863, and 866. —Petitions of Ada Wells and 27 Others, E. C. Atkinson and 9 Others, M. Slatbb and 21 Others, of Christchurch. Petitioners pray that steps may be taken to obtain possession of the Bank of New Zealand for the purpose of making it absolutely and entirely a State bank. I am directed to report that the Committee affirms the resolution reported to the House on the 6th October last in connection with similar petitions—viz., " That this Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petitioners that the Bank of New Zealand be made absolutely and entirely a State bank, but that it be a recommendation to the Government that any State support granted the Bank of New Zealand at the close of the existing arrangement be in the nature of the colony joining as a shareholder and retaining a proportionate control in the management of the Bank." 17th November, 1903.

Nos. 867, 868, 869, 877, 879, 880, 884, 888, 889, and 890. — Petitions of Lieutenant Church and 7 Others, J. Watson and 9 Others, T. R. Clow and 16 Others, B. Bond and 12 Others, M. A. E. Pratt and Another, E. M. Spiers and Another, T. G. Caer and 4 Others, J. Tuenbdll and Another, C. H. Laws and Another, and J. W. Macky and 223 Others. Petitioners pray that the proposed Licensing Bill be not passed, &c. I am directed to report that, as the Licensing Bill has been disposed of by the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 17th November, 1903.

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No. 762.—Petition of A. Wheatly and 196 Others, of Petone. Petitionebs pray that they may be heard in protest-against the passing of the Hutt Boad Bill, &c. I am directed to report that, as the Hutt Boad Bill has been passed by the House, and is now before the Legislative Council, this Committee has no recommendation to make. 17th November, 1903.

No. 875.—Petition of John Scott Myees, of Marshlands. Petitionek prays that he may be permitted to appear in person at the bar of the House in support of his petition. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 17th November, 1903.

No. 857. —Petition of Alexander MacDougall, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for relief on account of the great loss he has sustained in connection with the Greymouth-Point Elizabeth Bailway and Coal Company (Limited), &c. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 18th November, 1903.

Final Bepobt. I have the honour to report that the Committee has held thirty-four sittings during this session. Number of petitions referred to the Committee .. ... ... 208 Number of petitions dealt with ... ... ... ... ... 204 Number of petitions held over ... ... ... ... ... 4 Number of reports presented to the House ... ... ... ... 75 Number of specific recommendations made therein ... ... ... 13 Number referred for favourable consideration ... ... ... ... 7 Number referred for consideration ... ... ... ... .. 15 Number of "No recommendation," &c. ... ... ... ... 40 20th November, 1903. Approximate. Coat of Paper. —Preparation, not given; printing (1,250 copies), JE7.

By Authority : John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington.—l9o3. Price, 6d.]