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

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1908 Session I, I-02

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1908. NEW ZEALAND.

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

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

ORDER OF REFERENCE. Extract from the Journals of the House of Representatives. Friday, the 3rd Day or July, 1908. Ordered, " That a Committee be appointed, consisting of ten members, to consider all petitions from M to Z that may be referred to it by the Petitions Classification Committee, to classify and prepare abstracts of such petitions in such form and manner as shall appeal' 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. Alison, Mr. Barclay, Mr. Buddo, Mr. Greenslade, Mr. Hornsby, Mr. Okey, Mr. Rutherford, Mr. iStallworthy, Mr. Thomson, and the mover."—(Hon. Mr. Fowlds.)

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INDEX.

No. Petitioners. Page. r>03 Balderston, A. W., and 20 others, and 39 similar petitions re North Auckland Railway Berry, H., and Co., and 180 others Bowmar, D., and 68 others, and 34 similar petitions re North Auckland Railway Brownlee, J. L., and 25 others, and 12 similar petitions re North Auckland Rail5 348 r>94 10 9 555 10 way 244 137 Carlton, J., and 97 others - .. Cole, W. S., and 28 others 9 8 209 61 Deway, A., and 237 others Downey. M. N., and 28 others .. 9 8 170 Eads, G., and 2b' others, and 16 similar petitions re kauri-gum industry 9 Final report II 62 245 192 Gaze, 0., and 28 others George, A. A., and 111 others .. Grigg, D. L., and 177 others 8 9 9 (i:i Hall, R., and 28 others 8 44(i Johnson, D. W., and 121 others, and 10 similar petitions"re Walton Park Railway S Kauri-gum industry petitions. (See Schedule under Eads, G., and 26 others.) r>4 Lineham, J., and 28 others 8 no :!!)(! 71 437 138 495 445 .->8:> 139 .223 251 558 559 Mackenzie County Council Mackenzie, K., and 18 others Makgill, J. E., and 163 others .. Mathews, H. B., and 22 others Mead, S., and 28 others Meikle, W., and 59 others Millar, J., and 17 others Moir, J. E., and 133 others Mois, C. W., and 28 others ; Moloughney, P., and 44 others I Moore, F., and 7 others Mouton, D. .. : Murphy, W. J. 4 7 3 6 8 6 8 9 8 6 10 8 8 28/9 441 117 213 27 43!) Kl 72 193 (> McClusky, A. J. McDonald, J., and 16 others McKenna, E. G. McLeire, L. D., and 25 others McLeod, D. J., and 43 others McLeod, John McMahon, E. McMillan, Thomas McMurray, R., and 202 others McNeil, A., and 5 others 5 8 4 6 3 7 5 3 9 3

No. Petitioners. Page. 628 560 214 Newenham, VV. H. . . .. .. 10 Newman, H., and another .. .. 8 New Zealand Farmers' Distributing Com- 8 412 panv Noble-Beasley, R. T. . . .. .. 7 North Auckland Railway petitions : For schedules, see Balderston, A. W., and others; Brownlee, J. L., and others j Bowmar, D., and others 397 252 77 131 O'Malley, J. .. .. .. .. 6 Opaheke Road Board .. .. 6 Owens, W., and 90 others .. .. 4 Owens, W. H.. and 13 others .. .. 4 439 102 65 584 44 413 78 631 45 609 479 538 Paget. P. .. .. .. 7 Parker, J. J. .. .. .. 4 Pasco, P., and 28 others ..' .. 8 Pearce, W. B., and 15 others .. .. 9 Pearson, J., and 23 others .. .. 3 Peters, J. F. .. .. .. 7 Pilkington, J. .. .. .. 5 Pinkerton, Margaret .. .. .. 8 Plummer, A. .. .. 10 Porter, T. W. .. .. .. 11 Preston, H. W. .. ... .. 11 Prince, J. S., and 194 others .. .. 10 610 391 33 224 79 Rae, H. R. .. .. .. .. 11 Rizzi, A. (two reports) .. .. 7, 9 Rochefort, S. .. .. .. 3 Rowley, Joseph .. .. .. 5 Russell, A., and 23 others .. .. 3 34 143 80 440 140 549 312 349 392 133 646 22 14 81 Saba, M. and N. .. .. .. 3 Sales, Frank .. .. .. .. 4 Seymour, T. .. .. .. 4 Smith. A. G. .. .. .. I 7 Smith, M. E., and 2H others .. .. 8 Smyth, J. H. .. .. .. j 7 Stephenson, J. J. .. .. .. j 11 Stewart Dawson and Co., and 69 others . . 10 „ ,, 135 others.. 10 Stewart, William, and 91 others .. 4 Story, B. S. .. .. .. . . 9 Strange, F. W., and 32 others .. .. (i Sullivan, S. J., and 52 others .. . . 3 Swann, John .. .. . . 5 178 195 561 585 66 637 Thompson, C. .. .. .. 5 Thomason, W. J. .. .. .. 4 Tipple, Charles .. .. .. 10 ..10 Trounson, E., and 28 others .. .. 8 Tyernan, W. J., and 329 others.. .. II 82 Walls, E. (two reports) \ .. .. i 4. 5 Walton Park Railway Petitions : For schedule see Johnston, D. W., and 121 others Ward, John .. .. .. .. 5 56

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EEPOETB.

No. t>.—Petition of A. McNeil and 5 Others, of Otau Petitioners pray for a grant of £150 for widening and culverting the Otau lload. 1 am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration, with a recommendation that either a local body be formed in the district or that the area be joined to some existing body. 28th July, 1908.

No. 14.—Petition of S. J. Sullivan and 52 Others, of Dannevirke. Petitioners pray that they may be exempted from compulsory military service on the ground that their religion does not permit them to use weapons of offence. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 28th July, 1908. No. 27.—Petition of D. J. McLeod and 43 Others, of Waipu. Petitioners pray for a grant of ,£2OO for the improvement of the Finlayson's Brook Road. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the consideration of the Government. 28th July, 1908. No. 33.—Petition of Singleton Roohefout, of Parnell. Petitioner prays that Parliament may call the attention of His Excellency the Governor to certain alleged defects in connection with constitutional procedure. 1 am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 28th July, 1908. No. 34.—Petition of M. and N. Saba, of Masterton. Petitioners pray for compensation for alleged injury to their business as the result of certain actions by the Official Assignee. I am directed to report that, as the petitioners have not exhausted their legal remedies, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 28th July, 1908. No. 44.—Petition of J. Pearson and 23 Others, of Peria. Petitioners pray for a grant of .£1,500 lor the purpose of metalling the road from Victoria Valley to Peria. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 28th July, 1908. No. 72.—Petition of Thomas McMillan, of Atea. Petitioner prays for a grant of 80 acres of land for military services. I am directed to report that, as the pttitioner is debarred by Act of Parliament, through having obtained his discharge subsequent to the year 1872, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 28th July, 1908. No. 79.—Petition of A. Russell and 23 Others, of Awanui. PbtitiONEßS pray that some protection and assistance may hi' granted to gum-diggers while draining a swamp. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for early inquiry. 28th July, 1908. No. 71.—Petition of J. E. Makgill and 163 Others, of Waiuku. PETITIONERS pray for the construction of a, branch line of railway to connect Waiuku and other places with the Main Trunk line. I am directed to report that, as this petition involves a question of policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th August, 1908.

No. 27.—Petit-ton of D. J. McLeod and 43 Others, of Waipu. Petitioners pray for a grant of £200 for the improvement of the Finlayson's Brook Road. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the consideration of the Government. 28th July, 1908.

No. 33.—Petition of Singleton Roohbfout, of Parnell. Petitioner prays that Parliament may call the attention of His Excellency the Governor to certain alleged defects in connection with constitutional procedure. 1 am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 28th July, 1908.

No. 3i.—Petition of M. and N. Saba, of Masterton. Petitioners pray for compensation foe alleged injury to their business as the result of certain actions by the Official Assignee. I am directed to report that, as the petitioners have not exhausted their legal remedies, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 28th July, 1908.

No. 44.—Petition of J. Pearson and 23 Others, of Peria. Petitioners pray for a grunt of £1,500 i'or the purpose of metalling the road from Victoria Valley to Peria. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 28th July, 1908.

No. 72. —Petition of Thomas McMillan, of Atea. Petitioner prays for a grant of 80 acres of land for military services. I am directed to report that, as the pttitioner is debarred by Act of Parliament, through having obtained his discharge subsequent to the year 1872, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 28th July, 1908.

No. 79. —Petition of A. Russell and 23 Others, of Awanui. Petitioners pray that some protection and assistance may be granted to gum-diggers while draining a swamp. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for early inquiry. 28th July, 1908.

No. 71.—Petition of J, B. Makgim and 163 Others, of Waiuku. Petitioners pray for the construction of a branch line of railway to connect Waiuku and other places with the Main Trunk line. I am directed to report that, as this petition involves a question of policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th August, 1908.

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No. 77.—Petition of William Owens and 90 Others, of Ruapekapeka. Petitioners pray that a sum of £500 be granted for the formation of the Ngaruawahine Road. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 4th August, 1908.

No. 80.—Petition of T. Seymour and 63 Others, of Whakapara. Petitioners pray for a grant of £500 for the widening and improvement of the Kaimamaku to Helena Bay Road. 1 am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 4th August, 1908. No. 102.—Petition of John Julius Parker, of Nelson. Petitioner prays for the return of the amount of his bail, estreated owing to the non-appearance of prisoner. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 4th August, 1908. No. 116.—Petition of the Mackenzie County Council. Petitioners pray for a refund of .i deposit paid on a purchase of land, the balance of purchasemoney of which was nut paid within the necessary thirty days. 1 am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 4th August, 1908. No. 82.—Petition of Elizabeth Walls, of Christchurch. Petitioned prays for compensation for land sold for non-payment of rates. 1 am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 20th August, 1908. No. 117.—Petition of Elizabeth Gordon McKenna, of Palmerston North. Petitioner prays for a compassionate allowance on account of her late husband's military services. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 20th August, 1908. No. 14.'i.—Petition of Frank Sales, of Christchurch. Petitioner prays for compensation for alleged wrongful imprisonment. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 20th August, 1908. No. 195.—Petition of W. J. Thomason, of New Plymouth. Petitioner prays that he may be granted relief under the Old-age Pensions Act. I am directed to report that the Committee is of the opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government with a recommendation that an amendment of the Old-age Pensions Act be passed providing for such deserving cases. 20th August, 1908. No. 131.—Petition of W. H. Owens and 13 Others, of Moutere. PETITIONERS pray for the construction of a road giving access to their lands fronting the Moutere Mud-fiat. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 20th August, 1908. No. 133.—Petition of William Stewart and 91 Others, of Waiotu. Petitioners pray for a grant (if '£300 for the improvement of the Waiotu-Hukerenui Road. I am directed to report thai the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 20th August, 1908.

No. 102.—Petition of John Julius Parker, of Nelson. Petitioner prays for the return of the amount of his bail, estreated owing to the non-appearance of prisoner. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration, 4th August, 1908.

No. 116. —Petition of the Mackenzie County Council. Petitioners pray for a refund of .1 deposit paid on a purchase of land, the balance of purchasemoney of which was nut paid within the necessary thirty days. 1 am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 4th August, 1908.

No. 82.—Petition of Elizabeth Walls, of Christchurch. Phtitionbh prays for compensation for land sold for non-payment of rates. 1 am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 20th August, 190 S.

No. 117.—Petition of Elizabeth Gordon MoKenna, of Palmerston North. Petitioner prays for a compassionate allowance on account of her late husband's military services. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 20th August, 1908.

No. L 43. —Petition of Frank Sales, of Christchurch. Petitioner prays for compensation for alleged wrongful imprisonment. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 20th August, 1908.

No. 195.—Petition of W. J. Thomason, of New Plymouth. Pktitionbr prays that he may be granted relief under the Old-age Pensions Act. I am directed to report that the Committee is of the opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government with a recommendation that an amendment of the Old-age Pensions Act be passed providing for such deserving cases. 20th August, 1908.

No. 131. —Petition of W. H. Owens and 13 Others, of Moutere. Petitioners pray for the oonstruotion of a road giving access to their lands fronting the Moutere Mud-fiat. I inn directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 20th August, 1908.

No. 133.— Petition of William Stewart and 91 Others, of Waiotu. Petitioners pray for a grant of '£300 for the improvement of the Waiotu-Hukerenui Road. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 20th August, 1908.

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Nos. 128 and 129. —Petitions of A. J. McClusky, of Auckland. Petitioner prays for compensation on account of loss of office as police constable, and for inquiry by a Stipendiary Magistrate into the circumstances of his injury and discharge from the prison service. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of these petitions. 2nd September, 1908. •

No. 178.—Petition of Catherine Thompson, of Sawyer's Bay. Petitioner prays for compensation on account of the death of her son, W. H. Rennie, of Papakaio. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 2nd September, 1908.

No. 82. —Petition of Elizabeth Walls, of Christchurch. (Second Report.) Petitioner prays for compensation for land sold for non-payment of rates. I am directed to report that the Committee, having reconsidered this petition, has no recommendation to make so far as the prayer of this particular petition is concerned; the Committee, however, strongly recommends the Government, in cases where local bodies sell any property or properties for the non-payment of rates in deceased estates, to take such steps as will ultimately lead to a reform in the law dealing with such cases, so that any such estates may not be sacrificed. 2nd September, 1908.

No. 78.—Petition of John Pilkington, of Remuera. Petitioner prays for redress relative to Native land at Remuera. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Native Affairs Committee. 3rd September, 1908.

No. 81.—Petition of John Swann, of Aotea. Petitioner prays that he may be granted a pension in recognition of his military services. I am directed to report that the Committee lias no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 22nd September, 1908.

No. 224. —Petition of Joseph Rowley, of Christchurch. Petitioner prays that he may be granted compensation for his services under the Provincial Government. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 23rd September, 1908.

No. 13.—Petition of E. McMahon, of Kakahi. Petitioner prays for an inquiry into the circumstances connected with the termination of his contract for the supply of railway sleepers at Kakahi. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 22nd September, 1908.

No. 56. —Petition of John Ward, of Lower Hutt. Petitioner prays that legislation may be introduced for the purpose of protecting tenants from liability for rates in certain cases. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the question of introducing legislation to secure redress in this and similar cases should be recommended to the Government for favourable consideration. 22nd September, 1908.

No. 503. —Petition of A. W. Balderston and 20 Others, of Kaiwaka, and 39 other similar Petitions as per Schedule attached. Petitioners pray for an alteration in the proposed route of the North Auckland Railway. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that before the North Auckland Railway is extended north from Topuni as at present proposed the Government be recommended to make an exhaustive survey of alternative routes in order that the best interests of the various districts may be served. 22nd September, 1908. I. 2— Inset.

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Schedule. No. 504.—L. Brown and 27 others. No. 524.— W. Rogan and 38 others. „ 505.— W. H. Burch and 44 others. „ 525.— R. Ross. : „ 506.—A. Campbell and 22 others. „ 526.— G. N. Rowe and 56 others. M 507.—5. Campbell and 47 others. „ 527.— W. Smith and 20 others. , „ 508.— W. Chadwick and 24 others. „ 528.— R. C. Smith and 22 others. „ 509.— W. Chadwick and 27 others. „ 529.— W. Thompson and 40 others. „ 510.— R. Coates and 10 others. „ 530.— H. Wallis and 23 others. „ 511.— W. Cullen and 34 others. „ 531.— N. Wicks and 17 others. „ 512.—5. Dell and 49 others. „ 532.—A. Wilber and 11 others. „ 513.— H. Ellis and 47 others. „ 533.— T. W. Wilson and 47 others. ;j 514.— J. Fitness and 47 others. „ 534.—C. A. Wilson and 47 others. „ 515.— A. J. Grant and 12 others. „ 535.— J. H. Wood and 23 others. „ 516.— E. Hargreaves and 9 others. „ 539.— E. T. Area and 47 others.. ' „ 517.— W. Jackman and 23 others. „ 540.— H. Topia and 9 others. H 518.— W. E. Kerr and 41 others. „ 541.— R. Rena and 49 others. „ 519.— W. Linton and 22 others. „ 542.— R. Waitai and 51 others. „ 520. — J. A. Marchant and 60 others. „ . 543.— W. Pihema and 13 others. „ 521.— T. S. Millington and 45 others. „ 544.— W. T. Pao and 34 others. „ 522.— W. Moore and 15 others. „ 545.— W. Paikea and 47 others. „ 523.— H. Morris and 47 others.

No. 213.—Petition of L. D. McLbiee and 25 Others, of Greenfield Settlement. Petitioners pray for a sufficient sum of money to be granted them to complete the Waitahuna Bridge. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 22nd September, 1908. No. 22.—Petition of F. W. Strange and 32 Others, of Ohinemuri County. Petitioners pray for a grant of £1,000 for the completion of the Paeroa-Te Aroha Road. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 22nd September, 1908. No. 223.—Petition of P. Moloughney and 44 Others, of Raupo. Petitioners pray that a sum of money may be granted for the formation of a road from Bradley's Corner to Raupo Township. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 30th September, 1908. No. 252.—Petition of the Opaheke Road Board. Petitioners pray that a sum of £500 be granted towards the improvement of the Opaheke Main Road. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. '30th September, 1908. No. 495.—Petition of W. Meikle and 59 Others, of Swanson. Petitioners pray that a sum of £400 be granted for the improvement of the Swanson - West Coast Road. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. '30th September, 1908. No. 437.—Petition of H. B. Mathews and 22 Others, of Kaitaia. Petitioners pray for a grant of £1,000 for the improvement of the road from the Kaitaia Dairy Factory to Dunn's gate. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 30th September, 1908. No. 397.—Petition of J. O'Mallet and 222 Others, of Grey Valley. Petitioner prays for a traffic-bridge to be erected over the Grey River. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 30th September, 1908.

No. 22.—Petition of F. W. Strange and 32 Others, of Ohinemuri County. Petitioners pray for a grant of £1,000 for the completion of the Paeroa- Te Aroha Road. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 22nd September, 1908.

No. 223.—Petition of P. Moloughney and 44 Others, of Eaupo. Petitioners pray that a sum of money may be granted for the formation of a road from Bradley's Corner to Eaupo Township. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 30th September, 1908.

No. 252.—Petition of the Opaheke Road Board. Petitioners pray that a sum of £500 be granted towards the improvement of the Opaheke Main Road. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. "30th September, 1908.

No. 495.—Petition of W. Meiklb and 59 Others, of Swanson. Petitioners pray that a sum of £400 be granted for the improvement of the Swanson - West Coast Road. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 30th September, 1908.

No. 437.—Petition of H. B. Mathews and 22 Others, of Kaitaia. Petitioners pray for a grant of £1,000 for the improvement of the road from the Kaitaia Dairy Factory to Dunn's gate. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 30th September, 1908.

No. 397.—Petition of J. O'Mallet and 222 Others, of Grey Valley. Petitioner prays for a traffic-bridge to be erected over the Grey River. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 30th September, 1908.

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No. 549.—Petition of J. H. Smyth, of Auckland. Pbtitionbe prays to be granted admission to the Veterans' Home on account of his military services to the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 30th September, 1908.

No. 396.—Petition of K. Mackenzie and Others, of Orari. Petitioners pray that the water-race rates at Orari may be made the subject of Government inquiry. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 30th September, 1908. No. 439.—Petition of Pamela Paget, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that an inquiry may be held as to the state of health of her son, at present confined in prison. I am directed to report that, in respect to the first prayer of the petition, the Committee is of opinion that it should be referred to the Government for consideration; and, in respect to the second prayer, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 30th September, 1908. No. 412.—Petition of B. T. Noble-Beaslet, of Wanganui. Petitioner prays for further remuneration for services performed as probation officer. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 30th September, 1908. No. 391.—Petition of A. Eizzi, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for an inquiry into the conduct of the Magistrate when hearing cases in which petitioner has been interested. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 30th September, 1908. No. 413.—Petition of John Ford Peters, of Dannevirke. Petitioner prays for inquiry to be held into his alleged illegal committal to the Mount View and Porirua Asylums. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. . 2nd October, 1908. No. 438.—Petition of John McLeod, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that his son may be granted further remuneration for services performed as a commissioned officer in the Ninth New Zealand Contingent. I am directed to report that the Committee reaffirms its previous recommendation, reported to the House on the Bth October, 1907, in respect to a similar petition—viz., That, in view of the admitted facts that this officer received a commission from the New Zealand Government, and served as a lieutenant in South Africa, and, further, that he was not responsible for the nonconfirmation of his commission by the Imperial Government, the Committee is of opinion that the petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 2nd October, 1908. No. 440.—Petition of Agmen George Smith, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that he may be granted further remuneration for services performed as a commissioned officer in the Ninth New Zealand Contingent. I am directed to report that the Committee reaffirms its previous recommendation, reported to the House on the Bth October, 1907, in respect of a similar petition—viz., That, in view of the admitted facts that this officer received a commission from the New Zealand Government, and served as a lieutenant in South Africa, and, further, that he was not responsible for the nonconfirmation of his commission by the Imperial Government, the Committee is of opinion that the petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 2nd October, 1908.

No. 439. —Petition of Pamela Paget, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that an inquiry may be held as to the state of health of her son, at present confined in prison. I am directed to report that, in respect to the first prayer of the petition, the Committee is of opinion that it should be referred to the Government for consideration; and, in respect to the second prayer, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 30th September, 1908.

No. 412.—Petition of K. T. Noble-Bbaslet, of Wanganui. Petitioner prays for further remuneration for services performed as probation officer. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 30th September, 1908.

No. 391.—Petition of A. Eizzi, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for an inquiry into the conduct of the Magistrate when hearing cases in which petitioner has been interested. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 30th September, 1908.

No. 413. —Petition of John Ford Peters, of Dannevirke. Petitioner prays for inquiry to be held into his alleged illegal committal to the Mount View and Porirua Asylums. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. . 2nd October, 1908.

No. 438.—Petition of John McLeod, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that his son may be granted further remuneration for services performed as a commissioned officer in the Ninth New Zealand Contingent. I am directed to report that the Committee reaffirms its previous recommendation, reported to the House on the Bth October, 1907, in respect to a similar petition —viz., That, in view of the admitted facts that this officer received a commission from the New Zealand Government, and served as a lieutenant in South Africa, and, further, that he was not responsible for the nonconfirmation of his commission by the Imperial Government, the Committee is of opinion that the petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 2nd October, 1908.

No. 440.—Petition of Agmen George Smith, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that he may be granted further remuneration for services performed as a commissioned officer in the Ninth New Zealand Contingent. I am directed to report that the Committee reaffirms its previous recommendation, reported to the House on the Bth October, 1907, in respect of a similar petition—viz., That, in view of the admitted facts that this officer received a commission from the New Zealand Government, and served as a lieutenant in South Africa, and, further, that he was not responsible for the nonconfirmation of his commission by the Imperial Government, the Committee is of opinion that the petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 2nd October, 1908.

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Nos. 445 and 444. —Petitions of J. Millar and 17 Others, of Hedgehope, and J. McDonald and 16 Others, of Hedgehope. Petitioners pray for the construction of a railway to connect Hedgehope and adoining districts, with the Main South line at Gore. I am directed to report that, as this petition involves a question of policy, the Committee is of opinion that it should be referred to the Government for consideration. 2nd October, 1908.

Nos. 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 137, 138, 139, and 140.—Petitions of M. N. Downey and 28 Others,. of Kaihu, 0. Gaze and 28 Others, R. Hall and 28 Others, J. Lineham and 28 Others, W. Pasco and 28 Others, E. Trounson and 28 Others, W. S. Cole and 28 Others, S. Mead and 28 Others, C. W. Mois and*28 Others, and Mart E. Smith and 28 Others. Petitioners all pray for the extension of the Kaihu Railway. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 2nd October, 1908.

Nos. 446, 447, 448, 449, 456, 457, 458, 485, 486, 487, and 488.—Petitions of D. W. Johnston and 121 Others, of Fairfield, H. McLeart and 58 Others, G. McLeod and 17 Others, J. Milne and 21 Others, T. Kerr and 48 Others, H. McColl and 71 Others, D. L. McColl and 17 Others, E. Aslin and 37 Others, J. Gray and 38 Others, P. G. Bryde and 37 Others, A. L. Smith and 50 others. Petitioners all pray for the extension of the Walton Park Railway. I am directed to report that, as these petitions involve a question of policy, the Committee is of opinion that they should be referred to the Government for consideration. 2nd October, 1908.

No. 560.—Petition of H. Newman and Another, of Westport. Petitioners pray for compensation for drowning of horses and injury to coach while crossing the Buller River. I am instructed to report that the Committee is of opinion that, as the petitioners have not exhausted their legal remedies, it has no recommendation to make. 2nd October, 1908.

No. 214.—Petition of the New Zealand Farmers' Co-operative Distributing Company (Limited), of Wellington. Petitioners pray that the Government will afford them relief by taking over the lease of premises vacated by them. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 2nd October, 1908.

No. 631. —Petition of Margaret Pinkerton, of Dunedin. Petitioner prays for a compassionate allowance on account of the services of her late husband in the House of Representatives and the Legislative Council. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 7th October, 1908.

No. 558.—Petition of Daniel Mouton, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for a compassionate allowance on acount of his services in the Public Works Department. i I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 7th October, 1908.

No. 559.—Petition of W. J. Murphy, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for inquiry and redress for losses sustained through fires and alleged unsatisfactory postal delivery. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for inquiry. 7th October, 1908.

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No. 583.—Petition of J. E. Mom and 133 Others, of Orawia. Petitioners pray that a bridge may be erected over the Orawia Kiver, and for the extension of the Orepuki—Waiau Railway. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 7th October, 1908.

No. 584.—Petition of VV. B. Pbaroe and 15 Others, of Manawatu. Petitioners pray for an alteration to be made in the Manawatu Rating District. I am directed to report that the Committee lias no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. ' 7th October, 1908. No. 391.—Petition of A. Rizzi, of Wellington. (Second Report.) Petitioner prays for an inquiry into a Magistrate's conduct in respect to petitioner's cases. I am directed to report that the Committee, haying reconsidered the petition, reaffirms its previous decision —viz., that it has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of the petition. 9th October, 1908.

No. 616.—Petition of B. S. Story, of Kaikoura. PETITIONER prays for inquiry into a decision of a Magistrate in which petitioner has been cast in costs in a ca.se in which he was found to be entirety in the right. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for inquiry. 9th October, 1908.

No. 170.—Petition of G. Eads and 26 Others, and 16 other similar Petitions as per attached Schedule. Petitioners all pray for the amendment of the Kauri-gum Industry Act of 1898. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th October, 1908. Schedule. No. 171.—S. Stafford and 21 others. No. 442.—R. Dawson and 18 others. „ 253.—P. Russell and 11 others. „ 443.— J. Vaughan and 22 others. „ 254.—S. Wells and 29 others. „ 478.—H. T. Armstrong and 9 others. „ 351.— J. H. Smith and 19 others. „ 492.—W. J. Mumford and 30 others. „ 387.—C. Bryce and IK others. ,, 562.— J. Strong and 15 others. „ 388. — J. McGregor and 10 others. „ 563.— J. Rea and 21 others. u 394. —C. Hobein and 173 others. „ 582.—P. Graves and 54 others. „ 420.—W. Perry and 47 others. „ 627.— J. Oulhane and 21 others.

Xos. 192, 193, 209, 244, and 245.—Petitions of D. L. Grigg and 177 Others, R. McMurray and 202 Others, A. Deway and 237 Others, J. Carlton and 97 Others, and A. A. George and 111 Others. Petitioners all pray for legislation to be introduced for the purpose of amending the Chinese Immigration Restriction Act. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of these petitions. '9th October, 1908. No. 594. —Petition of D. Bowmar and 68 Others, and 36 other similar Petitions as per attached Schedule. Petitioners all pray that the present proposed route of the North Auckland Railway may be adhered to. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th October, 1908.

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Schedule. No. 595.— F. Clark and 56 others. No. 635.— J. Neill aud 16 others. „ 596.— T. Eraser and 20 others. „ 638.—A. Andrews and 19 others. „ 597.— J. Keay and 8 others. „ 639.— J. McCarroll and 15 others. „ 598.— G. Mason and 20 others. . „ 640.— J. Mackie and 15 others. „ 599.— W. McCullough and 18 others. „ 641.— R. Person and 15 others. „ 600.—-A. Stephens and 20 others. „ 642.—A. E. Tracy and 19 others. „ 601.—M. Walker and 19 others. „ 643.—D. W. Tracey and 5 others. „ 617.— J. Dickey and 18 others. „ 647.— J. N. Baxter and 14 others. „ 618.— J. Dill and 53 others. „ 648.— F. ColJinson and 17 others. „ 619.—P. Griffin and 10 others. „ 649.— W. Hawkins and 29 others. „ 620.— W. Gunson and 18 others. „ 650.— F. McDonald and 20 others. „ 621.— J. Mclnnes and 19 others. „ 651.— G. Robertson and 19 others. „ 622.— W. McKinstry and 19 others. „ 652.— E. T. Snell and 32 others. „ 623.—P. Waddington and 19 others. „ 653.— E. Wright and 19 others. „ 629.— W. Crawford and 24 others. „ 656.— R. Kernohan and 10 others. „ 630.— W. A. Watson and 24 others. „ 657.— H. Millington and 23 others. „ 633.— W. Cloke and 19 others. „ 659.— J. H. Bulley and 18 others. „ 634.— J. Hay and 19 others. „ 660.— J. E. Kemp and 19 others.

No. 555.—Petition of J. Ij. Bhownlee and 25 Others, and 12 other similar Petitions as per attached Schedule. Petitioners all pray for an alteration in the proposed route of the North Auckland Railway. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th October, 1908. Schedule. No. 556.— N. Cooksey and 23 others. No. 588.— E. Flower and 24 others. „ 575.—D. Finlayson and 13 others. „ 589.— R. Mackay and 25 others. „ 576.—M. Netana and 4 othors. „ 590.— H. Massey and 15 others. „ 577.— R. Otter and 8 others. „ 591.— J. H. Mackenzie and 22 others. „ 578.— J. C. Queen and 17 others. „ 592.—L. Rowsell and 13 others. „ 587.— N. Campbell and 20 others. „ 593.—C. Taylor and 24 others. No. 628.—Petition of W. H. Newenham, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for further compensation for services in the New Zealand Permanent Force. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 9th October, 1908. Nos. 561 and 585.—Petitions of Charles Tipple, of Christchurch. Petitioner prays for inquiry into the alleged interception of his postal correspondence, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of these petitions. 9th October, 1908. Nos-. 348, 349, 392, and 538.—Petitions of H. Berry and Co. and 180 Others, Stewart Dawson and Co. and 69 Others, Stewart Daw son and Co. and 135 Others, J. S. Prince and 194 Others. Petitioners all pray for legislation to be introduced to abolish the " coupon " system of trading. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th October, 1908. No. 45.—Petition of Albert Pi.ummer, of Auckland. Petitioner prays for compensation for loss on contract to feed prisoners a< thp Chatham Islands, alleged to have been made with the Government. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to this petition. 9th October, 1908. No. 251.—Petition of F. Moore and 7 Others, of Auckland. Petitioners pray for compensation for being ordered out of buildings by the Health Department. owing to the plague scare. I am directed to report that, as the petitioners have not exhausted their legal remedies, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 9th October, 1908.

t Schedule. No. 556.— N. Cooksey and 23 others. No. 588.— E. Flower and 24 others. „ 575. —D. Finlayson and 13 others. „ 589.— R. Mackay and 25 others. „ 576.—M. Netana and 4 othors. „ 590. —H. Massey and 15 others. „ 577.— R. Otter and 8 others. „ 591.— J. H. Mackenzie and 22 others. „ 578. — J. C. Queen and 17 others. „ 592.—L. Rowsell and 13 others. „ 587.— N. Campbell and 20 others. „ 593.—C. Taylor and 24 others.

No. 628.—Petition of W. H. Newbnham, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for further compensation for services in the New Zealand Permanent Force. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 9th October, 1908.

Nos. 561 and 585.—Petitions of Charles Tipple, of Christchurch. Petitioner prays for inquiry into the alleged interception of his postal correspondence, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of these petitions. 9th October, 1908.

Nob-. 348, 349, 392, and 538.—Petitions of H. Berry and Co. and 180 Others, Stewart Dawson and Co. and 69 Others, Stewart Dawson and Co. and 135 Others, J. S. Prinok and 194 Others. Petitioners all pray for legislation to be introduced to abolish the " coupon " system of trading. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th October, 1908.

No. 45.—Petition of Albert Pi.ummeb, of Auckland. Petitioner prays for compensation for loss on contract to feed prisoners at thp Chatham Islands, alleged to have been made with the Government. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to this petition. 9th October, 1908.

No. 251.—Petition of F. Moore and 7 Others, of Auckland. Petitioners pray far compensation for being ordered out of buildings by the Health Department, owing to the plague scare. I am directed to report that, as the petitioners have not exhausted their legal remedies, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 9th October, 1908.

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No. 312.—Petition of J. J. Stephbnson, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that he may be granted a pension in return for services rendered in the Defence Department. lam directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 9th October, 1908.

No. 610.—Petition of H. R. Rae, of Wellington. Petitioner prays to be paid for overtime worked in the service of the Public Works Department. lam directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in respect to the prayer of this petition. 9th October, 1908. No. 637.—Petition of W. J. Tyehnan and 329 Others, of Karangahake. Petitioners pray that the Townships of Karangahake, Mackaytown, and Raratu may be formed into a borough. lam directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for early considelation. 9th October, 1908. No. 479.—Petition of H. W. Preston, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for payment of an account rendered to the Marine Department for goods supplied to the s.Ss " Hinemoa." lam directed to report that, notwithstanding the grave irregularity observed in ordering these goods, the Committee recommends the payment of this account to the favourable consideration of the Government. 9th October, 1908. No. 609.—Petition of T. W. Porter, of Gisborne. Petitioner prays for compensation or retiring-allowance in view of long service in the civil and military forces of the Dominion. lam directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 9th October, 1908. Final Report. I have the honour to report that the Public Petitions Mto Z Committee has held fourteen meetings during the session of 1908. Number of petitions referred to the Committee ... ... ... 200 Number of petitions dealt with ... ... ... ... ... 197 Number of petitions held over ... ... ... ... ... 3 Number of reports presented to the House ... ... ... ... 70 Number of specific recommendations made therein ... ... ... 2 Number referred for favourable consideration ... ... ... 5 Number referred for consideration... ... ... ... ... 21 Number referred for inquiry ... ... ... ... ... 2 Number referred to other Committees ... ... ... ... 1 Number no recommendation, kc. ... ... ... ... ... 36 lam also directed to report the following resolution passed by the Committee, viz. :— " That this Committee desires to record its hearty appreciation of the great care and attention devoted by the Chairman (Mr. Buddo) to the business of the Committee, and of the able and courteous manner in which his duties have been carried out during the three sessions of Parliament; and that this resolution be recorded on the minutes of the Committee, and be reported to the House." 9th October, 1908. Approximate Ooet of Paper. —Preparation, not given ; printing (1,400 oopiee), j66 Oβ. fld By Authority : John Mackay, Government Printer. Wellington.—l9oß. Price 6d.]

No. 637. —Petition of W. J. Tyehnan and 'i 29 Others, of Karangahake. Petitioneks pray that the Townships of Karangahake, Mackaytown, and Raratu may be formed into a borough. lam directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for early consideration. 9th October, 1908.

No. 479. —Petition of H. W. Preston, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for payment of an account rendered to the Marine Department for goods supplied to the s.Ss " Hinemoa." lam directed to report that, notwithstanding the grave irregularity observed in ordering these goods, the Committee recommends the payment of this account to the favourable consideration of the Government. 9th October, 1908.

No. 609.—Petition of T. W. Porter, of Gisborne. Pbtitionek prays for compensation or retiring-allowance in view of long service in the civil and military forces of the Dominion. lam directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 9th October, 1908.

Final Report. I have the honour to report that the Public Petitions Mto Z Committee has held fourteen meetings during the session of 1908. Number of petitions referred to the Committee ... ... ... 200 Number of petitions dealt with ... ... ... ... ... 197 Number of petitions held over ... ... ... ... ... 3 Number of reports presented to the House ... ... ... ... 70 Number of specific recommendations made therein ... ... ... 2 Number referred for favourable consideration ... ... ... 5 Number referred for consideration... ... ... ... ... 21 Number referred for inquiry ... ... ... ... ... 2 Number referred to other Committees ... ... ... ... 1 Number no recommendation, &c. ... ... ... ... ... 36 lam also directed to report the following resolution passed by the Committee, viz. : — " That this Committee desires to record its hearty appreciation of the great care and attention devoted by the Chairman (Mr. Buddo) to the business of the Committee, and of the able and courteous manner in which his duties have been carried out during the three sessions of Parliament; and that this resolution be recorded on the minutes of the Committee, and be reported to the House." 9th October, 1908. Approximate Oott of Papm.— Preparation, not given ; printing (1,400 copies), £6 Oβ. Od.

By Authority : John Mackay, Government Printer. Wellington.—l9oß.

Price 6d]