REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS A TO L COMMITTEE. (Mr. SYMES, Chairman.)

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1904 Session I, I-01

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1904.

NEW ZEALAND.

REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS A TO L COMMITTEE. (Mr. SYMES, Chairman.)

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

ORDERS OF REFERENCE. Extracts from the Journals of the House of Representatives. Thuhsday, the 30th Day op Jhne, 1904. Ordered, " That a Public Petitions A to L Committee, consisting of ten members, be appointed to consider all petitions that may be referred to it by the Petitions Classification Committee, to classify and prepare abstraots of 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 time to this House, and to have power to report its opinions and observations thereupon to this House; also to have power to call for persons and papers ; three to be a quorum: the Committee to consist of Mr. Hall, Mr. Hardy, Mr. Lang, Mr. Lawry, Mr. R. McKenzie, Mr. Remington, Mr. Symes, Mr. Taylor, Mr. Wood, and the mover."—(Hod. Mr. Mills.) Tuesday, the 2nd Day of August, 1904. Ordered, " That the name of the Hon. Mr. Hall-Jones be substituted for the name of the Hon. Mr. Mills on the Public Petitions A to L Committee." —(Hon. Mr. Mills.)

INDEX.

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No. Petitioners. Page. No. Petitioners. Page. 196 307 13 917 347 748 935 89 678 504 175 818 90 Arndt, Fanny Ashworth, H. Baker, E. S... Bell, Thomas, and 62 others Bennett, William Boggon, H. M. Boyle, Lizzie, and 4 others Brent, D." .. Brown, Jessie .. Brown, J. G. Buller, Sir W. L. Burrow, William, and 113 others Bystrom, M. 4 5 2 II 4 8 M) 2 5 8 l<) 9 3 469 682 409 Deller, G. W., and another Dβ Weston, W. M. .. Douglas, James, and others of the Wakatipu Steam Shipping Company (vide al?o Appendix I.-lc) 5 (i II 503 704 399 933 310 712 Eaves, W. H. and 27 others Edgeoombe, W. Edwards, G. Edwards, A. R., and 24 others Elliott, W., and 149 others Enright, J., and 88 others 5 8 !) II 5 9 43 305 Causley, W. Chisholm, R., and 155 others (with two similar petitions) (Catlin's River Railway) Clarke, W. H. (No. 1) Clarke, W. H. (No. 2) Clark, George, and 21 others Clark, J. J. (vide also Appendix I.-In) .. Cleary, W. .. Cochrane, G., and 40 others Cohen, Sara, and 137 others Conboy, W. H. Coney, M. E. (No. 1) .. Coney, M. E. (No. 2) . . Crawford, R. Currie, S., and 8 others 8 5 97 705 424 498 Ferguson, E., and 7 others Final Report Fisher, 0., and 180 others Fraser, P. B., and 4 others Freeman, J. W. 3 I I (i (i 5 343 365 752 35 706 660 12 173/03 45 816 367 632 5 6 10 II 6 5 3 3 2 10 4 7 83 609 721 740 420 397 176 711 723 470 817 96 11 284 6 87/03 229 922 Garrard, W. G. Gerkin, J. H. H., and 46 others.. Gilchriat, S. H., and 54 others Gubb, T. A., and 101 others Guthrie, C. .. Hall, J. A. L., and 20 others Hamilton, H. J. Harris, G. H. Haycock, J. A., and 56 others .. Hayter, J. A., and 62 others Hill, J. C, and 4 others Horn, J., and 99 others Howard, J. .. Huddlestone, H. B. .. Hulme, A. J. Hunt, W. J. (with another similar petition) Hunter, W. .. Hunter, W. A., and 34 others 3 9 9 9 7 4 !l 7 10 4 10 3 4 4 2 II 5 10 792 548 Dallas, Charles, and 8 others (with five similar petitions) (licenses in the Kingcountry) Dash, George, and another (with seventy similar petitions) (Bruce Licensing Poll) Dean, G. W. H., and 4 others .. De Launay, Ann ., 6 7 827 927 9 10

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INDEX— continued.

REPORTS.

No. 89. —Petition of D. Brent, of Dunedin. Petitioner prays that compensation be granted him for loss of office as master in the Dunedin High School. I am directed to report that, in tEe opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Education Committee. 22nd July, 1904.

No. 45. —Petition of M. E. Coney, of Auckland. (No. 1.) Petitioner prays that a compassionate or other allowance be granted her on account of the loss of her husband, an ex-officer of the Postal Department. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 22n*d July, 1904.

No. 6. —Petition of A. J. Hulme, of Christchurch. Petitioner prays that compensation be granted for the wrongful arrest and prosecution of his son. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 22nd July, 1904.

Nos. 22, 34, and 41. —Petitions of J. L. Kelly and 1 Other, of Wellington ; W. G. Atack and 17 Others; and F. Eollett and 1 Other. Petitioners pray that Standing Order No. 236 be amended or repealed, making the proceedings of Select Committees open to the Press. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the Standing Orders Committee. 22nd July, 1904.

No. 42. —Petition of Bishop Lenihan, of Auckland, and 94 Others. Petitioners pray that the Morgan system of mensuration be introduced into our schools. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Education Committee. 22nd July, 1904.

No. 13.— Petition of E. S. Baker, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that further compassionate allowance be granted her for loss of husband, an ex postal officer. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration, 29th July, 1904.

:o. Petitioners. Page. No. Petitioners. Page. 868 Irvine, C. H., and 16 others 11 II 778 177 676 Lett, Charles Levin, P. A... Loveridge, James 0 691 95 Jamieson, D., and 10 others Joyce, E. H. 8 3 8 3 195 Morrison, Margaret, and 43 others (with two similar petitions) (Divorce Act Amendment) 7 22 14 605 545 Kelly, J. L., and another (with two similar petitions) (amendment of Standing Orders) Kennedy, R., and 20 others Kibble white, C, and 22 others.. .. King, Thomas, and 11 others {vide also \ Appendix I.-1a) Kirwin, J. C. .. .. Kitt, Louis, and 4 others (vide also Appendix I-lD) Kitt, Louis, and 4 others (vide also Appendix I.-lD) 2 3 7 7 10 4 4 2 24 Petheriok, George, and 9 others (with fourteen similar petitions) (that the finding of the Committee re ballotpapers be expunged from records) 7 730 20 667 Reid, A. R., and 6,999 others (with fifteen similar petitions) (that greater discretionary powers be given to Magistrates re licenses) s 21 Wilkinson, A. V. (with six similar petitions) (that Licensing Bill be not passed) Wilson, G. A., and 4 others s !19 Mi) '82 42 Lane, James Lawrence, W. H. .. .. Lee, Wah, and another Lenihan, Bishop, and 94 others 3 10 9 2 772 281 5

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No. 12.—-Petition of Saka Cohen, of Dunediii, and 137 Others. Petitioners pray that assistance by way of grant or subsidy be given the Dunedin Kindergarten Association. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Education Committee. 29th July, 1904.

No. 673 (1903). - Petition of W. H. Conboy, of Greymouth. Petitioner prays that a full inquiry be made into certain allegations against various Departments. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 29th July, 1.904.

No. 95.—Petition of E. H. Joyce, of Pahi. Petitioner prays that a pension or compassionate allowance be granted her on account of her late husband's service in the Police Department. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 29th July, 1904.

No. 14. —Petition of Robert Kennedy, of Onehunga, and 20 Others. PETITIONERS pray that the sentence passed upon John Henry Kennedy, the son of one of the petitioners, be commuted. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 29th July, 1904.

No. 90. —Petition of Magnus Bystrom, of Thames. Petitioner prays that relief be granted him on account of injuries sustained during the Maori war. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 10th August, 1904.

No. 83.—Petition of W. G. Garrard, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that an inquiry be made into the reason why the old-age pension is not granted him. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 10th August, 1904.

No. 219.- Petition of James Lane, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that he receive further remuneration for past services, or compensation. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition 10th August, 1904.

No. 177.—Petition of P. A. Levin, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that he be reinstated as a Warder in the Prisons Department, or that he be given other suitable employment. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 10th August, 1904.

No. 97. —Petition of E. Ferguson, of Motatau, and 7 Others. Petitioners pray that the sum of £80 be placed upon the estimates for repairs to by-road in Rama-rama Valley. 1 am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 19th August, 1904.

No. 96. —Petition of James Horn, of Otago, and 99 Others. Petitioners pray that the laws relating to the licensing of hawkers be amended. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 19th August, 1904.

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No. 20. —Petition of Louis Kitt, of Wellington, and 4 Others. (No. 1.) Petitioners piaj T that more drastic measures be taken for the suppression of opium-smoking. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition, together with the evidence of Inspector Ellison, should be referred to the Government, and that the Government be recommended to give effect to the prayer of the petition. (Vide also Appendix 1.-Id.) 19th August, 1904.

No. 21. —Petition of Louis Kitt, of Wellington, and 4 Others. (No. 2.) Petitioners pray that more drastic measures be taken for the suppression of gambling among Chinamen. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition, together with the evidence of Inspector Ellison, should be referred to the Government, and that the Government be recommended to give effect to the prayer of the petition. (Vide also Appendix 1.-Id.) 19th August, 1904.

No. 11. —Petition of James Howard, of Westport. Petitioner prays that compensation be granted him for loss of arm through the bursting of a cannon. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration, and, having in view the fresh evidence that Lieutenant-Commanding Cossgrove was also captain of the cadet corps, the Government be recommended to pay the petitioner the sum of £250 as conrpassionate allowance. 19th August, 1904.

No. 196. —Petition of Fanny Arndt, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that she may receive relief or compensation on account of her late husband's policies in the New Zealand Government Insurance Department. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 26th August, 1904.

No. 347. —Petition of William Bennett, of New Plymouth. Petitioner prays that he may receive a further retiring-allowance as an ex public servant. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration, and that the Government be recommended to place the sum of £156 4s. 4d. on the estimates to compensate petitioner for loss of office. 26th August, 1904.

No. 367.---Petition of R. Crawford, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that compensation be granted him for loss of his son, an ex-Volunteer. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 26th August, 1904.

No. 397. —Petition of J. A. L. Hall, of Kawakawa, and 20 Others. Petitioners pray that the sum of £1,000 be placed upon the estimates for the construction of road and bridge en the Kaikohe-Kawakawa Koad. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 26th August, 1904.

No. 470.—Petition of J. A. Hayter, of Auckland, and 62 Others. Petitioners pray that a sum of £100 be placed upon the estimates for the completion of Hayter's Road. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 26th August, 1904.

No. 284. —Petition of Henry B. Htjddlestone, of Blenheim. Petitioner prays that effect be civen to past recommendations of the Public Petitions Committee in his favour. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 26th August, 1904.

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No. 229. —Petition of W. Hunter, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that compensation be granted him under the Naval and Military Acts. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 26th August, 1904.

No. 469. —Petition of G. W. Dellek, of Carterton, and 1 Other. Petitioners pray that a refund be made in the probate duty in the estate of the late James Smith, of Taratahi. 1 am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 9th September, 1904.

Nos. 503 and 660. —Petitions of W. H. Eaves, of Fairburn, and 27 Others; and G. Cochrane and 40 Others. Petitioners pray that the sum of £500 be placed on the estimates, such sum to be expended on the Flatbush Road. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th September, 1904.

No. 310.- Petition of W. Elliott, of Eketahuna, and 149 Others. Petitioners pray that a sum of money be granted for the completion of Smith's Road. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th September, 1904.

No. 498. —Petition of J. W. Freeman, of Wanganui. Petitioner prays that a grant of land be made him for military services. I am directed to report that, as petitioner did not forward his claim in accordance with the provisions of " The Naval and Military Claims Settlement and Extinguishment Act, 1896," the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 9th September, 1904.

No. 281.—Petition of George A. Wilson, of Hunua, and 4 Others (the Hunua Road Board). Petitioners pray that the Hunua Main Road be completed. 1 am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. . 9th September, 1904.

No. 307.—Petition of Henry Ashworth, of Wadestown. Petitioner prays that assistance be given him in the development of his new system of woolscouring. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 30th September, 1904.

No. 678. —Petition of Jessie Brown, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that compassionate allowance be granted her for loss of husband, Major Charles Brown, on account of services rendered. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 30th September, 1904.

Nos. 305, 345, and 487.- Petitions of R. Chisiiolm, of Dunedin, and 155 Others; J. Craig and 664 Others; and J. Dunloi* and 56 Others. Petitioners pray that Catlin's River Railway may be extended. I am directed to report that, as these petitions deal with a question of public policy, the Committee has no' recommendation to make thereon. 30th September, 1904

No. 343.—Petition of W. H. Clarke, of Rotorua. (No. 1.) Petitioner prays that some relief be granted him for his military service. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 30th September, 1904.

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No. 365. Petition of W. H. Clarke, of Botorua. (No. 2.) Petitioner prays that relief be granted him as the author of a scheme of State farms. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition 30th September, 1904.

No. 706. —Petition of W. Cleary, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that he may receive some redress owing to the seizure of his gum by the Government. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration, with a recommendation that a suitable sum be placed upon the estimates. 30th September, 1904.

No. 548. Petition of George Dash, of Waimate, and 1 Other (together with 70 similar Petitions as per attached Schedule). Petitioners pray that the Bruce Licensing Poll Bill be passed by the House. I am directed to report that, as this is a question of public policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 30th September, 1904

Schedule. No. 549.— W. H. Rose and 4 others. No. 619.— W. S. Barnard and 144 others. „ 568.— W. Stevenson and 25 others. ~ 620.—A. Begg and 29 others. ~ 569.— J. Aiteheson and 16 others. ~ 621.—5. C. Stoddard and 35 others. „ 570.—P. Somers and 12 others. „ 622.—C. M. Snow and 81 others. n 571. —D. Haggart and 22 others. „ 623.— W. Ready and 27 others. „ 572. —R. S. Allen and 20 others. „ 624.—D. Barrie and 55 others. „ 573. — J. Loskart and 19 others. ~ 625.— J. R. Johns and 53 others. n 574.— G. Miller and 20 others. „ 626.— R. Henry and 11 others. „ 575. —S. Lewis and 25 others. „ 627. —E. Bassett, and 83 others. n 576.— G. MacMillan and 19 others. „ 628.—A. Mao Donald and 40 others. „ 577.— J. Lowden and 93 others. ~ 634.— J. Bloor and 25 others. „ 578. —A. D. Thomson and 21 others. „ 635.—A. E. Carey and 23 others. ~ 579.— J. Jolly and 19 others. ~ 636.— J. Collie and 25 others. „ 580.— J. McCaw and 44 others. „ 637.— W. J. Comrie and 25 others. „ 581.— E. E. Evans and 14 others. „ 638.—M. A. Swallow and 43 others. „ 582.— J. Stewart and 25 others. „ 639.—A. Cunningham and 70 others. n 583.— G. R. Herous and 15 others. „ 640.—A. Blaokwell and 21 others. „ 584.— F. Ready and 12 others. „ 641.— T. Paulin and 21 others. n 585.— R. H. Blair and 21 others. „ 647.—M. E. Hollis and 123 others. „ 586.— W. Prebble and 20 others. „ 648.— W. Spence and 35 others. n 587.— W. Ham and 26 others. „ 649.— W. J. Lymburn and 20 others. ~ 588.— J. Shadrach and 14 others. „ 650.— W. J. Downey and 26 others. „ 589.— G. F. Hollins and 15 others. „ 651.— H. R. Wilkinson and 26 others. „ 590.— R. M. Newburgh and 10 others. „ 654. —R. Fairmaid and 41 others. „ 591.—M. Foster and 24 others. „ 655. —C. H. Laws and 40 others. „ 592.— J. Standring and 26 others. „ 656.— J. Allen and 28 others. „ 593.—5. Seth-Smith and 19 others. „ 657.— W. T. Fleming and 12 others. „ 611.— R. Ramsay and 10 others. „ 675. —E. H. Yates and 17 others. „ 612.— J. Doull and 12 others. „ 685.— W. Nicholl and 19 others. „ 613.—C. Fletcher and 11 others. „ 690.—5. Young and 90 others. n 614.— H. Wilson and 12 others. „ 696.— J. S. Baxter and 20 others. „ 615.— J. F. Thompson and 22 others. „ 720.— J. Smith and 57 others. „ 616.— J. S. Olliver and 24 others. „ 755.—5. Snell and 26 others. „ 617. —B. Hutton and 26 others, gj „ 764. — J. Boon and 15 others. „ 618.—A.|W. Love and 25 others. „ 776. —S. Lawry and 12 others.

No. 682. Petition of W. M, de Weston, of Christchurch. Petitioner prays that relief may be granted him for alleged wrongful imprisonment. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 30th September, 1904.

No. 705.—Petition of Oscar Fisher, of Fairburn, and 180 Others. Petitioners pray that the District of Kaitaia be formed into a separate county. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 30th September, 1904.

No. 424. —Petition of P. B. Fraser, of Bruce, and 4 Others. Petitioners pray that a Bill be passed providing for the taking of a new licensing poll in Bruce. I am directed to report that, as this is a question of public policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 30th September, 1904.

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No. 420. Petition of Caroline Guthrik, of Wellington. PETITIONER prays that relief be granted her on account of the surrender of life policy of her late husband. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 30th September, 1904.

No. 711 .--Petition of G. H. Harris, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that compensation may be made him for injuries received while in the Police Force, and for his subsequent retirement therefrom. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration, with a recommendation that the petitioner be given some suitable, light employment: the Committee being of opinion that the injury was received while in the execution of duty. 30th September, 1904.

No. 605. —Petition of Charles Kibblewhite, of Motau, and 22 Others. Petitioners pray that a subsidy be given for completion of road from Purangi to Motau. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, I his petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 30th September, 1904.

No. 545.- -Petition of Thomas Kin<;, of Bull's, and 11 Others. Petitioners pray that steps be taken for the completion of railway communication from Levin to Greatford. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration, and that the evidence (vide Appendix) taken thereon should be laid upon the table of the House. (Vide also Appendix 1.-lα.) 30th September, 1904.

Nos. 195, 209, and 218. —Petitions of Margaret Morrison, of Christchurch, and 43 Others; G. Weaver and 39 Others; and W. Cooper and 31 Others. Petitioners pray that a certain amendment be made in the Divorce Act, to deal with cases of insanity. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 30th September, 1904.

No. 24. —Petition of G. Petherick, of Wellington, and 9 Others (together with 14 similar Petitions as per attached Schedule). Petitioners pray that the findings of the Public Petitions A to L Committee in reference to certain ballot-papers be expunged from the records of the House. I am directed to report that the Committee in its report did not use the words which the petition alleges, and therefore has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 30th September, 1904.

Schedule. No. til.—W. Spragg and 19 others. No. 220.— J. Clark and 5 others. 62.— T. A. Williams and 6 others. „ 354.—C. Porter and 3 others. „ 63.— R. Taylor and 9 others. „ 355.— J. Abbott and 3 others. „ 139.— R. Ferguson and 11 others. „ 356.— W. A. Pallant and 3 others. „ 140.— W. J. Williams and 9 others. „ 477.—C. Palk and 2 others. „ 141.—A. E. H. MoLeod and 16 others. „ 597.— J. Officer and 2 others. „ 178. — J. D Morrison and 1 other. „ 598.— R. Cossum and 5 others.

No. 632.—Petition of S. Currie, of Waikaia, and 8 Others. Petitioners pray that a grant be made for a road in the Waikaia District. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 6th October, 1904.

No. 792. Petition of Charles Dallas, of Taranaki, and 8 Others (together with 5 similar Petitions as per attached Schedule). Petitioners pray that residents of the King-country receive the licensing privileges granted to other parts of the colony. I am directed to repor.t that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration, 6th October, 1904,

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Schedule. No. 793.—C. J. Johnson and 48 others. i No. 796.—A. M. Symons and 3 others, „ 794. — J. Morriasey and 11 others. „ —G. H. Buckeridge and 26 others. „ 795. — J. Pascoe and 12 others.

No. 704. —Petition of William Eduecom.be, of Taranaki. Petitioner prays that he may receive a grant of land or money for past military service. I am directed £o report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 6th October, 1904.

No. 691. —Petition of D. Jamieson, of Taumarunui, and 10 Others. Petitioners pray that the sleepers prepared by them be taken over by the Public Works Department. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 6th October, 1904.

No. 667. —Petition of A. K. Reid, of Auckland, and 6,999 Others (together with 15 similar Petitions as per attached Schedule). Petitioners pray that greater discretionary power be given to Magistrates re indorsement of publicans' licenses. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition, it being a question of public policy. 6th October, 1904.

Schedule. No. 668.— J. H. Hay and 33 others. No. 697.— J. L. Carl and 1,999 others. „ 669.— G. H. Gilding and 29 others. „ 698.— E. Evans and 60 others. „ 670. — J. Adams and 37 others. „ 699.—M. Dixon and 65 others. „ 671.— J. M. Wigg and 98 others. „ 700.— W. O. Yates and 476 others. „ 672.— D. E. O'Neill and 31 others. „ 736.— J. W. Bush and 44 others. „ 673.—D. Carmichael and 220 others. „ 773.—C. S. Davies and 17 others. „ 674.— J. Johnstone and 272 others. „ 803.—L. Melntosh and 396 others. „ 686.— G. Gordon and 242 others.

No. 772. —Petition of A. V. Wilkinson, of Auckland (together with 6 similar Petitions as per attached Schedule). Petitioners pray that the Licensing Bill be not passed in its present form. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition, it being a question of public policy. 6th October, 1904.

Schedule. No. 774. — J. L. Long and 4 others. No. 780. —M. Runciman and 1 other. l( 775. —w. C. West and 4 others. „ 799.— J. J. Lewis (Panmure Methodist Church). B 779,—C. Laahlie and 19 others. „ 850.— G. W. Rogers and 5 others.

No. 748.—Petition of Henry M. Boggon, of Palmerston North. PhtitiONEß prays that a new trial be granted concerning the will of Henry Willis. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 13th October, 1904.

No. 504. —Petition of J. G. Brown, of Dunedin. Petitioner prays that relief be granted him for injuries sustained in the Transvaal War. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 13th October, 1904.

No. 43.-—Petition of William Causley, of Thames. Petitioner prays that his claim be reconsidered, and that he receive such relief as may be deemed just and right. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 13th October, 1904.

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No. 399. —Petition of George Edwards, of Napier. Petitioner prays that compensation be granted for loss of license of the Shakespeare Hotel, Napier. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition, the question being one of public policy. 13th October, 1904.

No. 712. —Petition of J. Enright, of Charleston, and 88 Others. Petitioners pray that the sum of £3,000 be granted for the construction of road from Charleston to Razorback. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 13th October, 1904.

No. 721.—Petition of S. H. Gilchrist, of Dunedin, and 54 Others. Petitioners pray that Government inspection be made of all religious institutions. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 13th October, 1904.

No. 740.—Petition of T. A. Gtjbb, of Kaipara Flats, and 101 Others. Petitioners pray that a grant be made for Te Tauhoa-Kaipara Flat Road. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition 13th October, 1904.

No. 176. —Petition of H. J. Hamilton, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that he be reinstated in Prison Department, and that an inquiry be made into the circumstances which led to his resignation. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 13th October, 1904.

No. 782. —Petition of Waii Lee, of Wanganui, and Another. Petitioners pray that a portion of the fines inflicted on them be remitted. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 13th October, 1904.

No. 778. —Petition of Charles Lett, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that a Board of Inquiry be set up in connection with lunatic asylums. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 13th October, 1904.

No. 676. —Petition of James Loveridge, of New Plymouth. Petitioner prays that he be paid an additional sum of £35 for work done at the Puniho Native School. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 18th October, 1904.

No. 818. —Petition of William Burrow, of Honipapa, and 113 Others. Petitioners pray that a grant be made for roads in their districts. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 18th October, 1904.

No. 821.—Petition of G. W. H. Dean, of Wellington, and 4 Others. Petitioners pray that provision be made for a road in Horowhenua. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 18th October, 1904.

No. 609. —Petition of J. H. H. Gerken, of Hillend, and 46 Others. Petitioners pray that telephonic communication be provided from Balclutha to Hillend. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration, 18th October, 1904. 2—1.1,

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No. 723.—Petition of J. A. Haycock, of Nelson, and 56 Others. Petitioners pray that a grant of £200 be made for a road in the Pearse Valley. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred tc the Government for consideration. 18th October, 1904.

No. 817.—Petition of John C. Hill, of Opaheke, and 4 Others. Petitioners pray that a sum be placed upon the estimates to be expended on the RamaramaMaketu Road. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred tc the Government for consideration. 18th October, 1904.

No. 752. —Petition of George Clark, of Moonlight, and 21 Others. Petitioners pray that a grant of £400 be made for a road to Moonlight. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 26th October, 1904.

No. 816.—Petition of Mahy E. Coney, of Auckland. (No. 2.) Petitioner prays that her former petition may be reconsidered. I am directed tc report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition 26th October, 1904.

No. 730.—Petition of J. C. Kirayin, of Nelson. Petitioner prays that he receive the arrears of wages for services rendered in South Africa. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration, and that the Government be requested to pay the claims for sick-pay up to the date of discharge —25th October, 1902 —if such be correct. 26th October, 1904.

No. 927.—Petition of Ann De Launay, of Stratford. Petitioner prays that she be refunded the sum of £20, the expenses incurred by her late husband in military services rendered to the colony. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 28th October, 1904.

No. 922.—Petition of W. A. Hunter, of Matakitaki, and 34 Others. Petitioners pray that the road be constructed from Horse Terrace to Hunter's Plains. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 28th October, 1904.

No. 919.—Petition of H. W. Lawrence, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that he may receive extra remuneration for services in the Agricultural Department, as chemist. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred w> the Government for favourable consideration. 28th October, 1904.

No. 935. —Petition of Lizzie Botle, of Hastings, and 4 Others. Petitioners pray that the totalisator be abolished. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. 2nd November, 1904.

No. 175. —Petition of Sir W. L. Buller, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that provision be made for the payment of costs incurred in the Horowhenua Block case. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make upon this petition. • 2nd November, 1904.

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No. 868. —Petition of C. H. Irvine, of Hokianga, and 16 Others. Petitioners pray that the Government grant them access to their sections in Whangape Survey District. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 2nd November, 1904.

No. 917. -Petition of Thomas Bell, of Matakitaki, and 62 Others. Petitioners pray that a footbridge be erected over the Matakitaki River. 1 am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 4th November, 1904.

No. 35. —Petition of J. J. Clark, of Daimevirke. Petitioner prays thai a just and adequate sum be paid him for services rendered in the Defence Department. I am directed to report that, as the subject-matter of this petition is now under the consideration of the Imperial authorities, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition, together with a copy of the evidence taken thereon, should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration, in terms of the recommendation of last year ; and, further, that the evidence be printed. (Vide Appendix also 1.-Ik.) 4th November, 1904.

No. 409. —Petition of James Douglas, of Queenstown, and 26 Others. Petitioners pray that compensation be granted them for loss sustained by the enforced sale of the property known as the Wakatipu Steam Shipping Company to the New Zealand Government. I am directed to report that the Committee has made full inquiry into the purchase of the Wakatipu Steam Shipping Company, and, after hearing the evidence of Dr. J. Douglas and Captain Wing on behalf of the petitioners, and that of Mr. C. A. Piper and Captain Post on behalf of the Railway Department, the Committee is of opinion that full value was paid by the Government. The Committee therefore has no recommendation to make upon this petition, further than to recommend that the evidence be printed. (Vide Appendix also 1.-lc.) 4th November, 1904.

No. 933. —Petition of A. R. Edwards, of Nelson, and 24 Others. Petitioners pray that £100 be granted for bridle-track up the Graham River. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 4th November, 1904.

* \ : os 87 and 88, 1903.—Petitions of W. J. Hunt, of Wellington, and A. Lindsay and 8 Others, of Wellington. Petitioners pray that compensation be granted W. J. Hunt for loss of timber rights in the Ngarara Block. I am directed to report that, owing to the indisposition of Sir A. J. Cadman, an essential witness, the consideration of these petitions is unavoidably postponed till next session. 4th November, 1904.

Final Report. I am directed by the Committee to report, — 1. That during the session the Committee has held twenty-one meetings. 2. That the Committee received 201 petitions for consideration. 3. That twenty-one petitions were referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 4. That twenty-eight petitions were referred to the Government for consideration. 5. That 144 petitions received no recommendation. 6. That six petitions were referred to other Committees. 7. That two petitions were held over till next session. 8. That the Committee desires to place on record its appreciation of the valuable services of Mr. H. Langford as Secretary, and of the painstaking and intelligent way in which he carried out his duties, and requests the Chairman to convey such resolution to the Ministry. sth November, 1904. Apfrroximate Cost of Paper.— Preparation, not given ; printing (1,250 copies), i>6 6s.

By Authority: John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington.—l9o4, Price 6d.]