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

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1917 Session I, A-01

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1917. ' NEW ZEALAND.

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

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

INDEX.

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No. of lories. Date. Subject. Page. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 LO II 12 IS 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 11 42 43 44 45 46 47 1916. Jan. 18 „ 26 „ 28 Feb., 25 „ 26 Mar. 14 „ 27 April 11 „ II „ 13 „ 15 „ 15 May 4 „ 4 „ 4 „ 4 4 „ 11 ,, 11 „ 12 „ 19 „ 19 „ 20 „ 25 „ 31 June 2 „ - r > „ 8 „ 9 „ 9 „ 9 „ 9 „ 9 July 7 ,, 7 ., 8 „ 19 Aug. 2 „ 14 „ 14 „ 21 ,. 31 , 31 „ 31 Sept. 11 „ 13 •I I* Treatment of officer prisoners of war Arbitration Conventions with Denmark and Brazil Appointment of Mr. J. H. Stringer as Consular Agent at Christehurch of United States of America Importation of diamonds .. Issue of passports and permits : New Zealand Gazette notice .. .. .. • .. Certificates of examination of nursery stock Port dues on vessels employed by the Crown Quantities of gold and silver entered for export from New Zealand Statistical returns for 1915 for the International Bureau of the Postal Union Measures adopted to detect offences under the Merchandise Marks Act Examination of masters and mates in the mercantile marine Inventions and research : Circular to educational institutions New Zealand Commissioner to United States of America to inquire into kauri-gum industry.. Prohibited exports Copyright in artistic works Vice-Consul of Norway at Christehurch, Mr. G. Jameson Regulations regarding diseases affecting live-stock Special postage-stamps issued in connection with the war Opening of Parliament: Governor's Speech Exports to Switzerland ; Form of certificate Passports for passengers arriving at Marseilles " Illustrations of New Zealand Flora " for National Museum of Ireland Regulations for introduction of live-stock into New Zealand Visit of American Consuls to prison and detention camps in dominions Postal war-tax, St. Vincent Scientific and industrial research Inspection by American Consul of internment camps in New Zealand : Report Address in Reply from both Houses of Parliament Deutsche Bank : Permission to remit money to enemy subjects in dominions Question of members of New Zealand Bar practising as King's Counsel in England.. ,. Alteration in postal rate : East Africa and Uganda Regulations for landing of persons in Egypt Dominions Royal Commission : Divisible expenses Resolutions of sympathy from both Houses of Parliament regarding death of Lord Kitchener.. Advances to dominions : Rate of interest Prize-claims notices.. Norwegian Vice-Consul at Dunedin, Mr. John Edmond Life-jackets : Instructions for Board of Trade Surveyors British Honduras war-tax on letters Second anniversary of declaration of war : Resolutions New Zealand Acts .. Jamaica war-tax on correspondence .. .... War-tax on correspondence, Grenada and St. Lucia War-tax on letters, St. Helena Inland travelling of officers within dominions Death of the Honourable Sir Maurice O'Rorke Norwegian Consul-General at Melbourne 2 2 2 3 :s 3 .'! 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 (i 6 (i 7 8 8 8 9 9 9 9 10 10 13 13 13 14 15 IS 15 16 16 17 17 17 17 18 26 26 27 27 27 27

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INDEX— continued.

No. 1. New Zealand, No. 15. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 18th January, 1916. With reference to your despatch, No. 597, of the 30th October, I have the honour to inform you, by request of my Prime Minister, that, as far as local circumstances permit, treatment on similar lines to those indicated in the copy of the War Office circular letter which accompanied your despatch under reply will be adopted in this Dominion as regards officer prisoners of war. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.0., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 2. New Zealand, No. 18. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 26th January, 1916. With reference to your despatch, No. 628, of the 13th November, intimating that the Arbitration Conventions concluded with Denmark and Brazil will expire on the 4th and 6th May, 1916, respectively, and that, His Majesty's Government propose to renew them, I have the honour to inform you, at the request of my Prime Minister, that the Government of New Zealand is in agreement with the proposal. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917, No. 3.

No. 3. New Zealand, No. 21. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 28th January, 1916. With reference to your despatch, No. 647, of the 22nd November, I have the honour to inform you that there is no objection to the appointment of Mr. John. Henry Stringer as Consular Agent of the United States at Christehurch. 2. My Ministers have accordingly caused a notification of this gentleman's appointment in the capacity named to be published in the New Zealand Gazette of the 20th January. . I have, &c., LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor, Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917, No. 5.

No. of Date. leries. 1916. 48 Oct. 5 49 ., 5 50 „ 5 51 „ 11 52 Nov. 2 53 „ 3 54 „ 22 55 „ 22 56 „ 25 57 Dec. 1 Subjeot. Gift of land by Tauwharetoa Tribe for settlement of returned Maori soldiers Ships' lifeboat compasses : Board of Trade notice Ships' wooden lifoboats : Board of Trade instructions Report of investiture Certificates of competency as master in mercantile marine Inspection of live-stock from Spain and Portugal War-tax on correspondence from Leeward Islands Imperial College of Science and Technology Consul of Peru at Auckland .. .. .. .. .. .. " Passports . . I'aKc. 27 28 2,s 28 29 29 30 30 30 31 , , 9

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No. 4. New Zealand, No. 31. Sir,— Government House, Wellington, 25th February, 1916. With reference to your despatch, No. 1, of the 3rd January, on the subject of the exportation of diamonds from the United Kingdom, I have the honour to inform you that, as suggested, instructions will be issued by my Ministers to ensure that any diamonds reaching New Zealand from the United Kingdom under the seals of the Diamond Export Committee will be passed without examination. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.0., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 5. New Zealand, No. 37. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 26th February, 1916. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 671, of the 2nd December, forwarding copies of a Supplement to the London Gazette of the 30th November last, containing an Order in Council of the same date amending the Defence of the Realm (Consolidated) Regulations, 1914, and relating to the issue of passports and permits. 2. My Ministers inform me that the necessary action was taken on receipt of your telegram of the 24th November last, a notice being published in the New Zealand Gazette of the 2nd December (page 3951). A copy of the Gazette is enclosed for convenience of reference. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 6. New Zealand, No. 51. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 14th March, 1916. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 710, i of the 15th December, enclosing copy of a letter from the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries inquiring whether my Government will accept a certificate of examination of nursery stock in the form accepted by the United States Government. 2. My Ministers advise me, in reply, that, in view of the assurance that the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries has arranged for the inspection of nurseries in Great Britain, and of the desire of His Majesty's Government to avoid the multiplication of forms during the war, the Government of New Zealand will accept the certificate in the form suggested by the Board. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917. No. 12.

No. 7. New Zealand, No. 61. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 27th March, 1916. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 25, L of the 12th January, on the subject of exempting His Majesty's ships and vessels employed in the service of the Crown from the payment of dues in British ports outside the United Kingdom.

A.-2, 1917, No. 15.

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2. As you will have gathered from my despatch, No. 147, of the sth August last, the necessary instructions in connection with light and harbour dues on prize or detained ships or cargo were issued to Collectors of Customs in accordance with your predecessor's despatch, No. 264, of the 21st May, 1915, and my Ministers advise me that in order to carry out the wishes expressed in your despatch under reply the further necessary instructions are being issued to the responsible Customs officials at New Zealand ports. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 8. New Zealand, No. 72. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 11th April, 1916. With reference to Mr. Chamberlain's circular despatch of the Bth December, 1898, I have the honour to inform you, at the request of my Prime Minister, that the quantities of gold and silver entered for export from New Zealand for the year ended December 31st, 1916, were as follows : Gold, 422,825 ounces, equal to 13,151-63 kilogrammes, valued at £1,694,553; silver, 957,541 ounces, equal to 29,783-54 kilogrammes, valued at £95,583. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 9. New Zealand, No. 74. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 11th April, 1916. In reply to your despatch, No. 62, of the 28th January, with regard to the compilation of statistics for 1915 for the International Bureau of the Postal Union, I have the honour to inform you that my Prime Minister advises me that the International Bureau has already been informed that the Government of New Zealand do not propose to make any statistical returns for the present. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 10. New Zealand, No. 76. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 13th April, 1916. I have the honour to inform you that my Prime Minister has asked me to convey an expression of the thanks of the Government of New Zealand for the information contained in the enclosures to your despatch, No. 74, of the 2nd February, as to the measures adopted to detect offences under the Merchandise Marks Act. 2. The Prime Minister mentions that the particulars supplied will doubtless be found of considerable use by the Government here. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. 11. New Zealand, No. 84. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 15th April, 1916. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 67, of the Ist February, enclosing copies of a circular issued by the Board of Trade amending the regulations relating to the examination in the United Kingdom of masters and mates in the mercantile marine. 2. In a minute addressed to the Prime Minister on this subject the Minister of Marine states that a copy of the circular referred to was recently received by the Marine Department from the Board of Trade direct, and the question as to whether any action should be taken in this Dominion was then considered. It was found that the New Zealand Shipping and Seamen Act does not give any power to grant temporary certificates of the nature mentioned in the circular, and it was therefore decided that nothing could be done in the way of issuing them. The Minister of Marine adds that he does not think the matter is of sufficient importance to necessitate an amendment of the Act being proposed. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917 No. 20.

No. 12. New Zealand, No. 85. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 15th April, 1916. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch of. the 7th February, No. 86, forwarding copy of a letter from the Ministry of Munitions covering a copy of a circular letter respecting inventions and research which is being issued to educational institutions. 2. My Prime Minister informs me that it is intended to send a copy of the circular to the four University colleges and to the technical schools in the principal cities of New Zealand, on the assumption that this course would be in accordance with the wishes of the Ministry of Munitions. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917 No. 21.

No. 13. New Zealand, No. 93. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 4th May, 1916. I have the honour to enclose copy of a letter which I have addressed to His Majesty's Ambassador at Washington, relative to the appointment by my Government of a special Commissioner to the United States of America in connection with the kauri-gum industry of New Zealand. 2. I have addressed similar communications to the British Consuls-General at New York and San Francisco. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 14. ~ . New Zealand, No. 94. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 4th May, 1916. With reference to your despatch, No. 151, of the 2nd March, relative to the exportation of certain articles from the United Kingdom, and suggesting that my Ministers should adopt a measure of prohibition similar to that adopted

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by His Majesty's Government under the Order in Council of the 23rd February, I have the honour to refer you to the Fifth Schedule of the Order in Council made in New Zealand on the 10th April, and published in the New Zealand Gazette Extraordinary of the same date, which provides for the prohibition of exportation of all foodstuffs to foreign destinations. Copies of the Gazette containing this Order in Council were enclosed in my despatch, No. 78, of the 13th April, which will no doubt reach you shortly. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 15. New Zealand, No. 98. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 4th May, 1916. With reference to my despatch, No. 141, of the 3rd August last, and to your telegram of the 29th October, relative to the extension of copyright in artistic works made prior to the present Act by others than residents of New Zealand, I have the honour to enclose the accompanying copies of an extract from the New Zealand Gazette of the 30th March, 1916, publishing an Order in Council which has been issued by my Government on the subject. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &C, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 16. New Zealand, No. 99. Sir,— Government House, Wellington, 4th May, 1916. In reply to your despatch, No. 100, of the 9th February last, I have the honour to inform you that the Government of New Zealand have no objection to the appointment of Mr. George Jameson as Vice-Consul of Norway at Christehurch. Notification of recognition of this gentleman in the capacity named was therefore published in the New Zealand Gazette dated 20th April, 1916. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 17. New Zealand, No. 101. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 4th May, 1916. I have the honour to transmit to you the accompanying copy of a memorandum which has been addressed to me by my Prime Minister on the subject of regulations under the Stock Act, 1908, for the prevention of the introduction into New Zealand of diseases affecting stock. 2. It will be observed that in the latter part of his memorandum the Prime Minister asks that His Majesty's Government will be so good as to arrange for a communication to be sent to the Government of the United States, with a view to securing the concurrence of that Government in the arrange-

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ment suggested in the case of the examination of live-stock for export to New Zealand from San Francisco; and also to arrange for the British Consular Officers mentioned in the memorandum to act in the capacity suggested. 3. Twelve copies of regulations under the Stock Act, 1908 (Notice No. 1803) are enclosed. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, PIC., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies,

Enclosure. Prime Minister's Office, Wellington, 29th April, 1916. Memorandum for His Excellency the Governor. The Prime Minister presents his compliments to His Excellency the Governor, and begs to inform him that, in accordance with the regulations under the Stock Act, 1908, for the prevention of the introduction into New Zealand of diseases affecting stock, the places mentioned in the following table have been appointed by the Minister of Agriculture as the ports from which live-stock intended for exportation to New Zealand must be shipped : —

In the case of the United Kingdom, London, Liverpool, and Glasgow are the ports specified by the regulations from which the shipment of live-stock to New Zealand is permitted. In accordance with the regulations referred to above, the Minister of Agriculture has further approved of the following arrangements being made in connection with the veterinary inspection of live-stock intended for shipment to New Zealand from overseas countries : — Namo of Country. Veterinarian appointed. United Kingdom ... The New Zealand Veterinary Officer attached to the office of the High Commissioner, or any veterinarian nominated by the High Commissioner, for the ports of London, Liverpool, and Glasgow. Canada ... ... Any veterinarian in the employ of the Canadian Government, for the Port of Vancouver. United States ... Any veterinarian in the employ of the United States Government, for the Port of San Francisco. France ... ... Any veterinarian nominated by the British Consul-General at Havre or Marseilles, for these ports respectively. Spain ... ... Any veterinarian nominated by the British Consul at Corunna, for the Port of El Ferrol. Portugal... ... Any veterinarian nominated by the British Consul at Lisbon, for that port. Mr. Massey will be glad if His Excellency will take steps to notify the Imperial authorities of the above, and also to arrange— (1.) For the United States Government to be communicated with, with a view to securing its concurrence in the arrangement suggested in the case of the examination of live-stock for export to New Zealand from San Francisco; and (2.) For the British Consular Officers in the countries mentioned to act in the capacity suggested. In order that those concerned may be apprised of the provisions of the regulations referred to there are forwarded with this memorandum one dozen copies of the regulations. W. F. Massey, Prime Minister.

No. 18. New Zealand, No. 111. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 11th May, 1916. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 138, dated 25th February, enclosing copy of a letter from the General Post Office, London, relative to the issue of special postage-stamps in connection with the war.

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Name of Country. Kinds of Live-stock. Ports appointed. United States Canada France Spain Portugal j . Horses, mules, and asses Horses, mules, asses, and cattle .. Asses Asses Asses San Francisco. Vancouver. Havre and Marseilles. El Ferrol. Lisbon.

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2. My Ministers advise me, in reply, that the required number of specimens of the undermentioned postage-stamps, &c., were sent by the New Zealand Post and Telegraph Department to the International Bureau of the Universal Postal Union, Berne, in accordance with the provisions of the Postal Union Convention : New Zealand |d. stamps overprinted " War Stamp "; New Zealand stamps overprinted " Samoa," of the denominations of Id., 2d., 2-J.d., 6d., Is., 55., 10s., and £1; and letter-card, Id. 3. The military authorities in occupation of the German territory of Samoa were responsible for an issue of German stamps overprinted " G.R.1.", but the issue was quickly exhausted, and no specimens are now available. I have, &c. LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 19. New Zealand, No. 113. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 11th May, 1916. I have the honour to enclose the accompanying copies of the Speech with which, on the 9th May, I opened the Second Session of the Nineteenth Parliament of New Zealand. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.0., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917. No. 45.

No. 20. New Zealand, No. 116. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 12th May, 1916. At the request of my Ministers I have the honour to inform you, in reply to your despatch, No. 164, of the 7th March, that should any licenses be granted for the exportation of prohibited goods to Switzerland two certificates of exportation in the form enclosed in your despatch will be issued, and the colour, texture, and print of such certificates will resemble that form (S. 45a) as closely as possible. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 21. New Zealand, No. 119. Sir,— Government House, Wellington, 19th May, 1916. I have the honour to inform you that the necessary steps are being taken by Ministers to ensure, so far as this Dominion is concerned, the fulfilment of the conditions set forth in your despatch, No. 204, of the 22nd March, relative to the possession of passports, &c, by passengers arriving at Marseilles. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Right, Flon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. 22. New Zealand, No. 121. Sir,— Government House, Wellington, 19th May, 1916. I have the honour to inform you, in reply to your despatch, No. 188, of the 15th March, that the Government of New Zealand have much pleasure in granting the application of the Director of the National Museum of Ireland for a copy of the work entitled " Illustrations of the New Zealand Flora." 2. A copy for presentation to the Museum is accordingly being sent to you under separate cover. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor, Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 23. New Zealand, No. 124. Sir, — Government Douse, Wellington, 20th May, 1916. With reference to my despatch, No. 101, of the 4th May, relative to the provision made by regulations under the Stock Act, 1908, for the introduction of live-stock into New Zealand, I have the honour to inform you, at the request of my Prime Minister, that the specifying of ports in foreign countries from which live-stock for export to New Zealand must be shipped, and the appointing of veterinarians in those countries to undertake the veterinary inspection of such live-stock, have now been notified in the New Zealand Gazette, as provided in the regulations referred to. 3. Twenty copies of the Gazette of the 4th instant in which the notification appeared (Notice No. 1832) are enclosed for use in connection with whatever steps may be necessary as regards the British Consular Officers in the countries mentioned acting in the direction suggested. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 24. New Zealand, No. 128. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 25th May, 1916. I have the honour to inform you that I have brought under the notice of my Ministers your despatch, No. 197, of the 21st March, and its enclosure, relative to the granting of facilities to Consuls of the United States to visit and inspect Austro-Hungarian and German prison and detention camps in the oversea dominions. 2. I am advised by the Prime Minister that American Consuls in New Zealand have been permitted to visit the prison camps in this Dominion whenever they so desired, and that all facilities have been accorded them in connection with their inspections. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 25. New Zealand, No. 129. Sir, Government House, Wellington, 31st May, 1916. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 219, of the 25th March, and to inform you in reply that there is no objection on

A.-2, 1917 No. 26.

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the part of the New Zealand Government to the proposal to raise the postage in St. Vincent by way of war-tax, with the limitations mentioned by you. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Right lion. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 26. New Zealand, No. 133. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 2nd June, 1916. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 230, of the 29th March, forwarding copies of a memorandum relating to the scheme for the organization and development of scientific and industrial research. 2. My Ministers recognize that the subject is one of great national and Imperial concern, and is entitled to any co-operation this Dominion is in a position to afford. The matter has been referred to a Board constituted under the Science and Art Act, 1913, for opinion and advice. 3. A copy of the documents which accompanied your despatch has been forwarded to the University of New Zealand as desired. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917, No. 50. .

A.-2, 1917" No. 27-:

No. 27. New Zealand, No. 135. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, sth June, 1916. I have the honour to transmit the accompanying copies of a despatch addressed to me by the American Consul-General in New Zealand, enclosingcopies of his reports regarding the inspection of the prisoner-of-war internment camps at Devonport Barracks, Somes Island, and Motuihi, New Zealand. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Enclosure. American Consulate-General, Auckland, New Zealand, Your Excellency,— 9th May, 1916. I have the honour, at, the request of the Department of State, Washington, D.C., to enclose herewith copy of my report covering the inspection of the internment camps at Devonport, Barracks, Somes Island, and Motuihi, which is respectfully submitted for your consideration. I have, &c., Alfred A. Winslow, American Consul-General. His Excellency the Governor of New Zealand, Wellington, New Zealand. Second Report on Military Detention Barracks at Devonport, by Alfred A. Winslow American Consul-General, Auckland, New Zealand. Devonport Military Detention Barracks are situated at the North Head of the Auckland Harbour, about three miles from the city. Date of visit: 3rd April, 191.6. Direction: Commanding Officer Auckland Military District, Lieut.-Colonel J. E. HumeCommanding Officer Military Barrraeks, Captain William Quayle Kewish, Royal New Zealand Artillery.

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Prisoners: There is one military prisoner and twelve civilian prisoners, of whom twelve are Germans and one Swiss. Committees : There are none. Sleeping-accommodation : The sleeping-accommodation was about, the same as indicated in my report, of the 18th September, 1915, with my despatch dated the 18th September, 1915, save improvements by way of ventilation, better light, and a few other minor improvements bringing the accommodation well up to date. Sanitary arrangements : Same as indicated in my report of the 18th September, 1.915, with my despatch dated the 18th September, 1915. Infirmary : The New Zealand Medical Officer who is stationed with the New Zealand Royal Artillery Forces at the barracks attends to the prisoners, and it is understood that when it is necessary they will be sent to the Auckland Hospital for treatment. Kitchen : The food is the same as supplied to Royal New Zealand Artillery troops mobilized in fixed defences. There is a soldier-cook assisted by a Gorman prisoner. Work : The prisoners are expected to keep their quarters clean and to assist some about cooking. Three are employed about the barracks a portion of the time, when they receive 3s. a day for their services. These men also do odd jobs for outside people, in the way of making pieces of furniture, &c. Exercise: The prisoners have the liberty of the enclosures surrounding the barracks, and are allowed to go out in the boats near the barracks for fishing, &c. Wants by camp : No complaints or requests were made by any of the prisoners with whom I conversed, although I let it be known that 1 wished to hear from any if they had any statement to make. Observations : Everything seemed quite satisfactory about the barracks, and the prisoners as contented as could be expected under the circumstances. They seemed to appreciate the treatment they received at the hands of the Camp Commandant, Captain W. Q. Kewish. Alfred A. Winslow, American Consul-General. Second Report on Military Camp, by Alfred A. Winslow, American Consul-General, Auckland, New Zealand. Somes Island. —This island covers about 40 acres, and is located in the Wellington Harbour, about live miles from the city. The island is about 150 ft. high, witli the buildings located at the top. Date of visit: 6th April, 1916. Direction: Commanding Officer Military District, Lieut.-Colonel Pilkington, AdjutantGeneral; Commanding Officer Internment Camp, Major D. Matheson. Prisoners: There were 215 Germans, 20 Austrians, 1 Hungarian, I Turk, 2 Bulgarians, 1 American, and 6 naturalized subjects of other countries, of winch 94- were military prisoners and 152 civilian prisoners; besides, there is 1 prisoner of war an inmate of the mental hospital, who is a civilian German who comes under the jurisdiction of the camp. Committees : There is the same arrangement so far as committees are concerned as indicated in my report of the 25th August, 1915, with my despatch dated the 18th September, 1915, which seems to work out very satisfactorily. Sleeping-accommodation : The sleeping-accommodations are practically the same as indicated in my report, of the 25th August, 1915, with my despatch dated the 18th September, 1915, save more are placed in the rooms, leaving the total average air-space per man at about 667 cubic feet, which seems to be very satisfactory, since no complaints were made along this line. Sanitary arrangements : The sanitary arrangements were the same as indicated in my report of the 25th August, 1915, with my despatch dated the 18th September, 1915, which seems to be entirely satisfactory, since there were no complaints whatever made in regard to sanitary conditions. There were a few prisoners who were suffering some from rheumatism and chronic ailments, but there were none bedridden or seriously ill, save one who was in the hospital over in the city. One death was reported to have taken place in the camp since my last visit on the 25th August, 1915, caused by heart-failure as reported, and I am informed that there has been no illness directly traceable to camp conditions during the time. Infirmary : The same arrangements existed as indicated in my report of the 25th August, 1915, with my despatch dated the 18th September, 1915, which seemed satisfactory. Kitchen : The same kitchen equipment was in service as indicated in my report of the 25th August, 1915, with my despatch dated the 18th September, J 915. When I visited the kitchen, dinner was in process of cooking, and everything seemed to be in first-class condition, and the room was very tidy and the food seemed fresh. No complaint was made in regard to provisions in any way. Work : From time to time such, prisoners as desire are given employment when there is anything to do, under the direction of the guards, and are paid 3s. a day. At the time of my visit there were seventy employed, of whom sixty-eight were working on the construction of additional accommodation for the prison guards, and two were employed as cooks in the cookhouse. Quite a number of the prisoners employ and amuse themselves by manufacturing fancy boxes, walking-sticks, models of ships, cribbage-boards, canvas shoes, fancy ornaments, &c. These they sell from time to time and use the money for luxuries or anything they wish to buy. Also, some of the prisoners keep some chickens, and others do a little gardening.

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Exercise : At certain hours prisoners are required to march for a certain time about the island for exercise, and they are allowed to swim in the surf on certain sections of the beach whenever they desire from 6 a.m. until 5 or 6 p.m. Wants by camp : There were no complaints from the prisoners relative to camp conditions, save on the part of the following—G. Brenner, Ernst Dorn, Alberhardts, A. von Egidy, P. Hoflick, Dr. Meineking, Walter Michael, W. Osbahr, G. Motzkus, H. Traub, Etenterstein, M. Moldehhauer, M. Rindt, Emil A. A. Schenstreit —who were brought, from Samoa early in November, 1915, and as the cool weather comes on they feel its effect and, fear that the cold weather of the winter would be too severe for them, and requested me to intercede in their behalf to be transferred farther north, if possible to Motuihi, which would seem quite reasonable if such arrangements can be made. There was one prisoner who feared he might suffer with cold during the winter for lack of sufficient clothing and bedding, who on inquiry admitted that he was wearing at the time heavy woollen flannels and that the camp supplied him with four woollen blankets, and the Commandant informed me that if it was necessary he could doubtless be supplied with additional covering. During my visit I conversed with all of the prisoners who wished to see me, and no complaints were made of the camp management or conduct. Only personal matters outside of the camp were referred to. Observations : Practically all of the prisoners had the appearance of being in- good health and well kept. The camp in general seemed in excellent condition and sanitary in all particulars. All of the prisoners who mentioned the matter spoke well of the Commandant, Major D. Matheson. I am enclosing herewith clipping taken from the New Zealand Herald of the 7th April, 1916, which quite thoroughly covers the situation from the viewpoint of a reporter who visited the island. Alfred A. Winslow, American Consul-General. Second Heport on Military Camp, by Alfred A. Winslow, American Consul-General, Auckland, New Zealand. Motuihi Island. —-This island covers about 450 acres, and is pleasantly situated in the Auckland Harbour, about nine miles from the city. The coast-line of about eight miles is irregular with several good beaches. Date of visit: 26th April, 1916. Prisoners : There were 38 Germans, 2 Austro-Hungarians, and 2 naturalized British subjects, of which 17 were first-class prisoners and 25 second-class. Each class is located in a separate building, save in the case of Dr. Schultz and his private secretary, Mr. Mars, who are located in a six-roomed cottage some distance from the main buildings. The two women who were in the camp when I made the last visit, on the Bth September, 1915, have since returned to Germany, Committees : There are no committees or organizations among the prisoners at Motuihi, save in the case of the second-class prisoners, who have selected one of their group as chairman to act as intermediator. This chairman made several reports on behalf of the second-class prisoners, which will be mentioned later in this report. Sleeping-accommodations : Practically the same as indicated in my report of the Bth September, 1915, with my despatch dated the 18th September, 1915, with the exception of arrangements made for Dr. Schultz as mentioned above. Sanitary arrangements : No complaints were made relative to sanitary conditions on the island, and from general appearance everything seemed to be in first-class condition. Infirmary: Same conditions existed as indicated in my report of the Bth September, 1915, with my despatch dated the 18th September, 1915, and no cases of illness were reported. The regular physician visits the camp weekly, and when needed physicians can be called from the city at any hour. In this connection I might state that there were two German physicians in the internment camp who have been consulted at different times. Kitchen : The kitchen arrangements seem to be very satisfactory, and no complaints were made, in regard to the quality or quantity of the food. There is but one kitchen connected with the internment camp, although there are two separate dining-rooms. The first-class prisoners, prison guards, and the.second-class prisoners are all served from the same kitchen. Work : None of the prisoners were employed regularly about the camp, save now and then to some extent about the kitchen. Exercise : The prisoners are practically given the freedom of the island from 8.30 a.m. until 6 p.m., and are allowed to fish, bathe, play games, or roam the fields at their pleasure. Wants by camp: Mr. Henniger, chairman for the second-class prisoners, reported that sheets were not allowed the second-class prisoners of late save in a few cases. He stated that when the prisoners were first interned they all had sheets, but they had been taken away from them during the last few weeks. On investigation I learned from Lieut.-Colonel Turner that it was not customary even for British soldiers to be provided with sheets. He stated these original sheets were evidently supplied _by mistake to these prisoners, and that the authorities had decided to allow the second-class prisoners only the same covering as allowed the regular British soldiers. Dr. Schultz stated that a, new order had been issued to the effect that all dental work must be done by the military dentist, who is stationed at the fort at Devonport, even though the patient paid for the work done. To this he made a protest, claiming that in all cases where the person paid for the work done on his teeth he should be allowed to select his own dentist. No complaint was made in regard to the work done by the military dentist in cases where the New Zealand Government paid for the work. It was claimed that this was quite an important matter, since most of the first-class prisoners were receiving a regular allowance and would be able to pay for their own dental work.

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Dr. Schultz also mentioned that greater restrictions were applied of late in regard to visiting the City of Auckland, staling that often prisoners wished to buy articles that could not be supplied in the local canteen and desired to visit stores, shops, Ac, to select for themselves rather than to send by others. He Fell this il' more importance now since greater allowances were being made to (lie prisoners. In this connection Lieut.-Colonel Turner staled that the authorities felt that the prisoners had been abusing this privilege of late, there being often five or six who wanted to go to the city the same day. He also stated that il was not intended that this privilege would be entirely cut off, but that il was found necessary to restrict it to a certain extent. Observations: The prisoners all seemed in good health and quite well satisfied with conditions in general, save Ihe I'aet dial (lie life was very monotonous. All of those who mentioned the matter spoke well of the Commandant, Lieut.-Colonel 0. 11. Turner. Ai.i'uion A. Winslow, American Consul-General.

No. 28. New Zealand, No. L3B. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, Bth June, 1916. With reference to my despatch, No. 113, of the 11th May, forwarding copies of my Speech at, the opening of Parliament, 1 have the honour to transmit to you the accompanying copies of the Address in Reply From 1 lie Legislative Council and the House of Representatives respectively. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Eight lion. A. Bonar Law, P.0., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 29. New Zealand, No. 139. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 9th June, 193,6. With reference to your despatch, No. $3.8, of ihe 31st March, relative to the request of the Deutsche Bank for permission to remit to enemy subjects in the British dominions sums of money received from Germany for that purpose, I have the honour to state that I am advised by my Ministers that there is no objection to the bank in question making payment direct to interned prisoners of war personal accounts at the Post Office Savings-bank, New Zealand, or to the Commandants of the internment, camps. 2. in the latter case the money will be paid to the prisoners' individual accounts, on which they may operate fortnightly for such amounts as the Commandants approve. 3. in the case of uninterned persons, the payments may be made direct, provided the New Zealand Government is informed of the names of the persons to whom the money is remitted, and the amount stated in each instance. 1 have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.0., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 30. New Zealand, No. 140. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 9th June, 1916. I have the honour to transmit to you the accompanying copy of a memorandum which has been addressed to me by my Prime Minister, asking me to communicate with you with a view to application being made to the authorities of the inns of Court to permit, members of the New Zealand Bar who may hold the patent of King's Counsel dated after the passing of the New Zealand Law Practitioners Amendment Act, 1915, and who will be by section 3

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of that Act debarred from practising as solicitors in New Zealand, to practise as King's Counsel at the Bar in England, upon producing proof to the satisfaction of the authorities of the Inns of Court that the applicant holds a patent as one of His Majesty's Counsel and that the local law in New Zealand disentitles him to practise as a solicitor. 2. You will doubtless advise me in due course, for communication to my Ministers, the result of the application. I have, &c.> LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.0., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Enclosure. Prime Minister's Office, Wellington, 3rd June, 1916. Memorandum for His Excellency the Governor. The Prime Minister presents his compliments to His Excellency the Governor, and has the honour to request His Excellency to communicate with the Secretary of State for the Colonies urging that application be made to the authorities of the Inns of Court to permit members of the New Zealand Bar who may hold the patent of King's Counsel dated after the passing of the New Zealand Law Practitioners Amendment Act, 1915, and who will be by section 3 of that Act debarred from practising as solicitors in New Zealand, to practise as King's Counsel at the Bar in England, upon producing proof to the satisfaction of the authorities of the Inns of Court that the applicant holds a patent as one of His Majesty's Counsel and that the local law in New Zealand disentitles him to practise as a solicitor. For His Excellency's information it may be stated that in the year 1902 the Secretary of State for the Colonies was communicated with by the New Zealand Government at the instance of the New Zealand Law Society to endeavour to arrange with the authorities of the Inns of Court to establish reciprocal relations between the Bar of England and the Bar of New Zealand by providing that barristers admitted to practise at the New Zealand Bar be permitted to practise in England, and that barristers admitted to the Bar in England be given similar privileges in New Zealand. That request was duly considered by the four Inns of Court, and the following resolution, contained in a despatch, " General," from the Secretary of Stafe for the Colonies, dated the 9th April, 1903, was passed : — " That, inasmuch as facilities for joining the English Bar have always been confined to those colonies where the professions of barrister and of attorney and solicitor have been kept distinct, and that when such facilities have been granted to a colony where the said professions were kept distinct they have been withdrawn when the two professions have been amalgamated : and whereas it appears that in the Colony of New Zealand the same persons may and do practise both as barristers and solicitors and attorneys, according to the rules and legal procedure of the said colony, the Committee are of opinion that the facilities for joining the English Bar requested by the Law Society of New Zealand cannot be granted. The Committee recommend that no alteration be made in the practice hitherto adopted, and that the applications of the New Zealand Law Society be not complied with." The New Zealand Law Practitioners Amendment Act, 1915, which came into operation on the 12th October, 1915, meets somewhat the objection of the Inns of Court, in that now no member of the New Zealand Bar who may be granted the patent of King's Counsel is permitted to practise as a solicitor either alone or in partnership with any other solicitor. It is hoped therefore by the New Zealand Bar that the alteration in the New Zealand law affecting barristers who may in the future be appointed His Majesty's Counsel will enable the Inns of Court to approve 'of the application now made. A copy of the Law Practitioners Amendment Act, 1915, is attached for His Excellency's information. W. F. Massey, Prime Minister.

No. 31. New Zealand, No. 142. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 9th June, 1916. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 273, of the 14th April, stating that it has been decided to reduce to half an ounce

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the unit of weight for letters sent from the East Africa and Uganda Protectorates to places included in the Imperial penny-postage scheme. 2. [n acknowledging the receipt of the information my Ministers remark that it is not proposed to make any alteration in the case of letters despatched from New Zealand to those protectorates. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.0., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 32. New Zealand, No. 143. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 9th June, 1916. i have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 277, of the 14th April, enclosing copy of a telegram from the High Commissioner for Egypt on the subject of restrictions on landing in Egypt. 2. It is presumed that a supply of the necessary forms of application for permission to enter Egypt will be sent to my Ministers in due course. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 33. New Zealand, No. 144. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 9th June, 1916. With reference to your despatch, No. 234, of the 30th March, asking that a statement may be furnished of any expenditure defrayed directly by my Government up to the 31st March, 1915, in connection with the Dominions Royal Commission, I have the honour to inform you that I am advised that no further divisible expenditure has been incurred by the New Zealand Government since the statement which was enclosed in my despatch, No. 192, of the 10th November, 1914, was prepared. T have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.0., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the, Colonies.

No. 34. New Zealand, No. 171. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 7th July, 1916. I have the honour to transmit to you the accompanying copies of resolutions passed by the House of Representatives and the Legislative Council respectively in connection with the death of the late Field-Marshal Earl Kitchener of Khartoum. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.0., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonics,

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Enclosures. House of Representatives, Speaker's Dooms, Wellington, N.Z., My bono,- 6th July, 1916. I have the honour be forward to Your Excellency a copy of a resolution passed by the House of Representatives in reference to the death of Lord Kitchener. 1 have, &c, F. W. Uno, Speaker, House of Representatives. His Excellency the Right Hon. the Earl of Liverpool, K.C.M.G., M.V.0., &c, Government House, Wellington. " That the New Zealand House of Representatives in Parliament assembled deeply deplores the lamented death of Field-Marshal Earl Kitchener, Secretary of State for War, while proceeding on IT.M.S. 'Hampshire' to Russia, at the request of the Tsar, on an important military mission; further, that, the House records its high appreciation of his distinguished services to the Empire as soldier and statesman throughout a long and illustrious career; and, further, that the House desires to express its profound sorrow in (he great loss which His Majesty's Government, the British Army, and Ihe Empire as a whole have sustained by his death." Legislative Council. Speaker's Rooms. Wellington, N.Z., My Loud,— 6th July, 1916. I have Ihe honour to forward lo Your Excellency a copy of a resolution passed by the Legislative Council in reference to the death of Lord Kitchener. I have, iV.c., ('. J. Johnston, Speaker, Legislative Council. His Excellency Ihe Right Hon. the Earl of Liverpool, K.C.M.G., M.V.0., &c, Government House, Wellington. " That the Legislative Council of New Zealand in Parliament, assembled deeply deplores the lamented death of Field-Marshal Earl Kitchener, Secretary of State for War, while proceeding on His Majesty's ship ' Hampshire ' to Russia, at Ihe request of the Tsar, on an important military mission; further, that the Council records its high appreciation of his distinguished services to the Empire as soldier and statesman throughout a long and illustrious career; and, further, that the Council desires to express its profound sorrow for the great loss which His Majesty's Government, the British Army, and the Empire as a whole have sustained by his death."

No. 35. New Zealand, No. 174. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 7th July, 1916. 1 have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 310, of the 28th April, forwarding, for the information of my Ministers, a copy of a letter from the Treasury regarding the rate of interest to be charged in respect of advances made by His Majesty's Government to the self-governing dominions. 2. The proposals outlined in the letter have been noted, and the necessary action will be taken. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, I\C, &c., Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonics.

No. 36. New Zealand, No. 176. Sir, - Government House, Wellington, Bth July, 1916. I have (lie honour to inform you that your despatch, No. 280, of the 15th April, on the subject of prize claims, has been laid before my Ministers, and that I am advised to inform you, in reply to paragraph 13, that notices have been published in the New Zealand Gazette as suggested. 1 have, &c, LIVERPOO! , The Right Hon.. A. Bonar Law, P.0., &c, Governor, Secretary of State for the Colonies,

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No. 37. New Zealand, No. 184. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 19th July, 1916. With reference to your despatch, No. 340, of the 9th May, I have the honour to inform you that there is no objection to the appointment of Mr. John Edmond as Honorary Norwegian Vice-Consul at Dunedin, and that notification of his appointment in that capacity was accordingly published in the New Zealand Gazette of the 13th July. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 38. New Zealand, No. 191. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 2nd August, 1916. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 380, of the 24th May, forwarding copies of new instructions on the subject of lifejackets, which are being issued to Board of Trade Surveyors. 2. I am informed by my Ministers that the necessary steps are being taken to amend the New Zealand Life-saving Regulations so as to embody the provisions of those which have been made by the Board of Trade I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon, A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. 39. New Zealand, No. 196. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 14th August, 1916. I have the honour to inform you, in reply to your despatch, No. 433, of the 13th June, that my Government raise no objection to the imposition of the war-tax referred to in respect of letters sent from British Honduras to New Zealand. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. 40. New Zealand, No. 198. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 14th August, 1916. I have the honour to transmit, to you the accompanying copies of resolutions passed by the House of Representatives and the Legislative Council respectively on the occasion of the second anniversary of the declaration of war. 2. Similar resolutions were passed at approximately 350 public meetings held throughout the Dominion, and at gatherings of the various tribes of the Maori race. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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Enclosures. My Lord, — Legislative Council, Wellington, N.Z., 7th August, 1916. I have the honour to forward to Your Excellency the enclosed extract from the Journals of the Legislative Council, passed on -the occasion of the second anniversary of the declaration of war. I have, &c. Oliver Samuel, Acting-Speaker of the Legislative Council. Extract from the Journals of the Legislative Council. Monday, the 7th day of August, 1916. Resolved, " That, on the occasion of the second anniversary of the declaration of a righteous war, the Legislative Council of New Zealand in Parliament assembled records its inflexible determination to continue to a victorious end the struggle in maintenance of those ideals of liberty and justice which are the common and sacred cause of the Allies." A. true extract. Oliver Samuel, Acting-Speaker of the Legislative Council.

M.y Lord, — Sneaker's Room, House of Representatives, Wellington, Bth August, 1916. I have the honour to forward herewith copy of a resolution passed this day by the House of Representatives in connection with the carrying of the present war to a victorious end. I have, &c, F. W. Lang, Speaker, House of Representatives. His Excellency the Governor, the Earl of Liverpool. Extract, from the Journals of the House of Representatives. Tuesday, the Bth day of August, 1916. Resolved, " That, on the occasion of the second anniversary of the declaration of a righteous war, the House of Representatives of New Zealand in Parliament assembled records its inflexible determination to continue to a victorious end the struggle in maintenance of those ideals of liberty and justice which are the common and sacred cause of the Allies; and, further, that this resolution be submitted to His Excellency the Governor for transmission to His Majesty the King." On motion of the Right Hon. Mr. Massey. A true extract. F. W. Lang, Speaker, House of Representatives.

No. 41. New Zealand, No. 204. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 21st August, 1916. At the instance of my Prime Minister I have the honour to transmit to you the accompanying synopsis, prepared by the Attorney-General of this Dominion, of the Acts passed during the second session of the Nineteenth Parliament of New Zealand, together with the Acts duly authenticated with the seal of the Dominion. • I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917 No. 66.

Enclosure. Prime Minister's Office, Wellington, 17th August, 1916. Memorandum for His Excellency the Governor. The Prime Minister presents his compliments and begs to forward herewith, for transmission to the Secretary of State for the Colonies, a synopsis, prepared by the Hon. the Attorney-General, of the Acts passed during the second session of the Nineteenth Parliament of New Zealand, together with the Acts duly authenticated with the seal of the Dominion. W. F. Massey, Prime Minister.

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Report on Legislation passed dy the General Assembly oe New Zealand during the Session ended on the Bth day op august, 1916. Eon the information of His Excellency the Governor, I beg to report as follows : — I. The synopsis attached hereto relates to the Acts passed by the General Assembly of New Zealand during the session which ended on the Bth day of August, 1916. 11. In my opinion none of the said Acts is repugnant to the law of England. Dated at Wellington, this 14th day of August, 1916. A. L. Herdman, Attorney-General. Synopsis op Aots passed by the General Assembly oe New Zealand during the Session ended on the Bth Day of August, 1916. Public Acts. 1916, No. 1. The War Pensions Amendment Act, 1916.—This Act extends in various respects the provisions of the War Pensions Act, 1915. Section 3 extends the provisions of the Act to members of the New Zealand Expeditionary Forces and to their dependants, notwithstanding that such members may not have actually left New Zealand with the Expeditionary Forces. Similar provision was made by section 2 of the Defence Amendment Act, 1915, and that section is repealed by the present Act. Section 4 modifies the provisions as to the conduct of business by the War Pensions Board. Section 7 provides for the grant of a pension to the father or mother of a deceased or disabled member of the Forces, if in any case the father or mother has not adequate means of support, and notwithstanding that-he or she may not be " dependent " within the meaning of the principal Act. Section 8 extends the provisions of the principal Act as to the payment of pensions to persons resident out of New Zealand. Section 9 re-enacts, with amendments, the provisions of section Id of the principal Act. It provides that for the purpose of computing the amount of pension payable to a member of the Forces, or to the wife or child of any such member, no account shall he taken of the property or income of the applicant from an}' other source. Section 1 1 increases from ss. to 7s. 83, per week the maximum pension that may be paid to children of a deceased or disabled member of the Forces. Section 12 enables the Governor by Order in Council to extend the provisions of the principal Act — (a.) To the officers and men (not being members of the New Zealand Naval Forces) who may be serving on board any ship, vessel, or boat that has been acquired by the New Zealand Government under the Naval Defence Act, 1913, and that during the continuance of the war is under the control of the Imperial Government; (/>.) To the officers and men engaged or employed on any vessel used for the transport of New Zealand troops; and (c.) To the dependants of the officers and men above referred to. Section 13 provides for the grant of a, pension under the principal Act in certain cases to persons who, though not dependants within the meaning of that Act, prove to the satisfaction of the Board (1) that they have suffered material loss of income or property by reason of the death or disablement of a member of the Forces; and (2) that they have not adequate means of support. Section 14 limits the right of any person who may be in receipt of an Imperial war pension to receive a war pension under the principal Act. The section provides for the receipt of one pension only, whichever may be the greater. Section 15 empowers the War Pensions Board to refuse to grant a pension to any applicant if in the opinion of the Board such applicant is of notoriously bad character or has been guilty of gross misconduct dishonouring him in the public estimation. Auv person who may be aggrieved by the refusal of the Board to grant a pension on any of the above grounds may appeal from the decision of the Board to a Stipendiary Magistrate. . The other amendments of the principal Act are of minor importance. 191.6, No. 2. The Imprest Supply Act, 1916.—This Act applies the sum of £935,800 out of the Public Account, and the sum of £16,000 out of other specified accounts, for the service of the financial year ending 31st March, 1917. 1916, No. •'!. The Expiring Laws Continuance Act, 1916.—This Act continues in force the 31st day of August, 1917, the several Acts specified in the First Schedule thereto. The Acts so specified relate to matters having reference to the present war. If found to be necessary the Acts will probably be further extended during the next session of Parliament. 1916, No. i. The Discharged Soldiers Settlement Amendment Act, 1916. — Section 3 of this Act extends the provisions of the Discharged Soldiers Settlement, Act, 1915, to persons who, being domiciled in New Zealand, have served during the present war with some portion of His Majesty's naval or military Forces other than the New Zealand Expeditionary Forces. Section 4 empowers the Government to render financial assistance to discharged soldiers who are the lessees or licensees under ordinary tenures of Crown or settlement land, or of other land administered by a Crown Land Board.

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Section 3 makes special provision for the acquisition of land that may be acquired for the purposes of the principal Act. It provides that any such land may be taken compulsorily under the Public Works Act, 1908, and power is given to acquire land under this section that could not be acquired under the Land for Settlements Act. Section 6 enables the Minister of Finance to raise the sum of £500,000 for the purpose of providing funds for the acquisition of land under the last preceding section. Section 7 increases from £50,000 to £100,000 the amount that may be expended for the purposes of the administration of the principal Act. 1916, No. 5. The Land and Income Tax Act, 1916. —This Act is a consolidation and amendment of the law relating to the mode of assessment of land-tax and income-tax. The amount of taxation for the year is fixed by the Finance; Act (No. 7). The new Act makes comparatively little alteration of the law, but there lias been an entire reconstruction of its form. The present Act is divided into twelve subdivisions or Parts, as follows :— Part I: Administration. Part II: Returns of Assessments. Part III: Objections to Assessments. Part IV: Valuation of Land. Part V: Ordinary Land-tax. Part VI: Graduated Land-tax. Part VII: Land-tax on Native Land. Part VIII: Income-tax. Part IX: Agents. Part X : Recovery of Tax. Part XI: Penalties. Part XII: General. The main alterations in the law are the following : — (1.) The mortgage-tax provided for under the former Acts is abolished. In 1915 •this tax represented Id. in the pound of the capital value of all mortgages owned by a taxpayer. In lieu of this tax the interest derived by a mortgagee from moneys invested on mortgage is regarded as income, and is liable accordingly to income-tax. (2.) Section 92 gives relief against "double taxation" in certain cases. It provides that " income derived by a person resident in New Zealand but not derived from New Zealand shall be exempt from income-tax if and so far as the Commissioner is satisfied that it is derived from some other' country within the British dominions, and that it is chargeable with income-tax in that country." (3.) Special provisions are made with respect to the assessment for income-tax of companies carrying on the business of gold-mining and scheelite-mining. Such companies are made assessable for income-tax on an amount equal to half of the total sum paid during the income-year as dividends to shareholders. (4.) Sections 144-153 make new provisions for the assessment and recovery of a, penal tax in cases where any taxpayer evades or attempts to evade the payment of any tax. The rate of penal tax is fixed at treble the amount of deficient tax, and may be assessed and recovered by the Commissioner of Taxes in the same way as ordinary tax. 1916, No. 6. The Imprest Supply Act, 1916 (No. 2). —This Act appropriates the sum of £955,800 out of the Public Account and £16,000 from other specified accounts for the service of the year ending 31st March, 1917. 1916,. No. 7. The Finance Act, 1916. —This Act is divided into Parts as follows:— Part I: Land-tax and Income-tax, Part II: Excess-profits Duty. Part TIT : Public Revenues. Part IV: Banking and Loans. Part, V: Aid to Public Works and other Public Purposes. Part VI: Stamp Duty. Part VII: Public Trust Office. Part VIII: Post Office Savings-bank Deposits. Part IX : Social Insurance. Part I (Land-tax and Income-tax) fixes the rates of ordinary land-tax, graduated land-tax, and income-tax payable for the year commencing on the Ist day of April, 1916. In addition to the ordinary taxes there are imposed (by way of sjrecial taxation to meet the increased expenditure involved by the war) the following taxes :— (a.) Section 3 imposes an addition of 50 per cent, to the graduated land-tax that would otherwise be payable. (b.) Section 4 makes an addition of 33J. per cent, to the rate that would otherwise be payable as income-tax. (c.) Section 5 imposes further additional income-tax equal to 6d. in the pound on all assessable income up to £900, and Is. in the pound on all assessable income in other cases. Part II (relating to excess-profits duty) imposes special taxation on what are known as excess profits that may have been derived by a taxpayer during the yeai ended on the 31st day of March, 1916. The term " excess profits " is defined to mean the amount by which the assessable income of a taxpayer for the said year exceeds his standard inoome. The term "standard income" is defined to mean, at the election of the taxpayer, — (a.) The average yearly assessable income for the three years ended on the 31st of March, 1914; or

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(6:) The average yearly assessable income for any two of those years; or (--;.) The assessable income for any one of those years; or (d.) A sum equal to 7| per cent, of the amount of the capital employed by a taxpayer in the production of his income for the year, together with an additional sum (not exceeding £600 in any case) as remuneration for the personal exertions of the taxpayer in the production of his income. ll' the taxpayer fails to make an election of his standard income the Commissioner of Tuxes is empowered to make such election on his behalf. The excess-profits duty is assessed at the rate of 45 per cent, of the difference between the standard income and the assessable income for the year ended as aforesaid. Special provisions are made to meet cases of hardship, and in particular provision is made for the modification of the provisions as to the method of ascertaining the standard income in cases where the capital employed in a business has been substantially increased or reduced during the • years by reference to which the standard income is computed. By section 20 the Commissioner of Taxes is empowered, on being satisfied that the business of a taxpayer has during the three years ended on the 31st day of March, 1915, resulted in a loss to the taxpayer, to reduce the amount of the excess profits by an amount sufficient to make good such loss. Excess-profits duty is not payable on income derived by way of salaries or wages; nor, in a, certain number of limited cases, on income derived by way of commission; nor in an}- case is excess-profits duty payable where the assessable income of the taxpayer is less than £300. Special provisions are made for the hearing of appeals from assessments of excessprofits duty. For this purpose a Board of Appeal is set up, consisting of three members, of whom one is a Judge of the Supreme Court. The Board of Appeal has power to hear questions of fact or of law relating to the assessment of taxation, but has no power to review the exercise by the Commissioner of discretionary powers. Every person who evades or attempts to evade the payment of excess-profits duty is made liable to a fine not exceeding £500 and not less than £5; but the provisions of the Land and Income Tax Act relating to assessment and recovery of penal tax are not made applicable in the cases of excess-profits duty. Section 32 confers upon the Minister of Finance power to enter into an arrangement with the Chancellor of the Imperial Exchequer with reference to any case where-excess-profits duty is chargeable under an Imperial Act, and also under this Act, in respect of the same assessable income. The said section reads as follows : — " In any case where excess profits are chargeable with excess-profits duty under this Part of this Act and are also chargeable in Great Britain with excessprofits duty under any Act of the Imperial Parliament imposing an excessprofits duty, the Minister of Finance may agree with the Chancellor of the Imperial Exchequer or other authorized person for the apportionment between the Imperial and the New Zealand Governments, towards the supplies necessary for the services of His Majesty, of the excess-profits duty derived pursuant either to this Part of this Act or to such Imperial Act as aforesaid (whichever provides for the greater amount of such duty), and may further agree that in any such case the excess-profits duty chargeable pursuant to the other of such Acts shall not be collected." Part 111 (Public Revenues) : Section 35 empowers the Minister of Finance to borrow such sums as may be required, not exceeding in the aggregate the sum of £16,000,000. The moneys so raised are to be paid into the War Expenses Account. The above-mentioned sum is deemed to include moneys which may heretofore have been or may hereafter be expended on behalf of the New Zealand Government by the Imperial Government in connection with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. To facilitate the raising of part of the said moneys in New Zealand special provision is made for the issue of what are called " war-loan certificates." These war-loan certificates are to be of a nominal value of £1 and £10, and are to be sold by the Post-master-General at a discount. On the expiration of five years from the date of the issue of the certificate the holder is entitled to receive the full amount of the nominal value. Moneys received by the Postmaster-General on the sale of such certificates are to be invested in Government securities issued for the purpose of the loan above referred to. Section 37 makes provision with respect to the formalities of the execution of Government debentures and other securities. Section 41 makes temporary provision for the issue of debentures in lieu of the payment of cash in respect of land acquired for any public purpose by the Crown. This section remains in force during the present war with Germany and for twelve months thereafter. Section 42 confers upon the Minister- of Finance power to raise moneys at a rate of interest higher than the rate specified in the authorizing Act if moneys are not, obtainable at the rate so specified. Part IV (Banking and Loans): This Part of the Act is of temporary duration only, and continues during the present war with Germany and for twelve months thereafter. Section 44 confers on the Governor in Council power to make regulations governing the business of banking in New Zealand, and, inter alia, makes provision for the issue of bank-notes of the denomination of 10s.

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Section 45 provides (a) for the regulation or restriction of the investment of moneys beyond New Zealand, and (b) for regulating the rates of interest that may be charged or received in respect of the investment of moneys in New Zealand. Section 46 provides that, except in the case of banks now carrying on the business of banking in New Zealand, no bank shall carry on such business except under the authority of an Act of Parliament or of an Order made by the Governor in Council. Part V (Aid to Public Works and other Public Purposes) : Section 49 provides for a loan of £1,000,000 in aid of certain public works. Section 50 provides for a lo,an of £50,000 for the purpose of afforestation. Section 51 extends the borrowing-powers of the Government for the purpose of State coal-mines from £150,000 to £250,000. Part VI (Stamp Duty) : Section 52 exempts from stamp duty powers of attorney executed by members of the Expeditionary Force. Section 59 exempts from duty conveyances or transfers of property to the trustees of war funds. The other provisions of this Part of the Act are of minor importance only. Part VII (Public Trust Office): Section 61 provides for the payment to the credit of estates in the course of administration by the Public Trust Office of a proportion of the profits made by that office in connection with the administration of estates. Part VIII (Post Office Savings-bank Deposits) : Sections 58 and 59 make special provisions for the temporary investment in the Post Office Savings-bank of moneys belonging to war funds, and not, immediately required. Part IX (Social Insurance) : The object of this Part of the Act is to assist, friendly societies l.iv extending to members of their societies certain of the benefits provided for by the National Provident Fund Act, 1910. Sections 67 to 71 provide for the payment of benefits to the members of such societies in respect of the birth of children. Sections 72 to 75 enable friendly societies, by contributions to the National Provident Fund on behalf of their members, to secure for their members pension benefits under the National Provident Fund Act. All payments made to the fund by or on behalf of members of friendly societies under these provisions are supplemented to the extent of 50 per centum thereof by way of subsidy out of the Consolidated Fund. The other provisions of the Act relate principally to matters of administration, and are of little general importance. 1916, No. 8. The Military Service Act, 1916.—This Act makes provision for the compulsory enrolment of Expeditionary Forces for service beyond New Zealand during the present war. For this purpose there is established a Reserve called " The Expeditionary Force Reserve." The Reserve consists of every male natural-born British subject who is for the time being of military age, and who is at the passing of the Act or subsequently becomes resident in New Zealand, with the following exceptions : — («.) Members of an Expeditionary Force raised under the Expeditionary Forces Act, 1915: (b.) Men discharged in consequence of disablement or ill health from the Expeditionary Force, or from any other portion of His Majesty's Forces, after service beyond the seas in connection with the present war : (c.) Men undergoing a sentence of imprisonment for a term not less than one year or in confinement as of unsound mind : (d.) Natives within the meaning of the Native Land Act, 1909. The Reserve is divided into two divisions, known respectively as the First Division and the Second Division thereof. The First Division consists of — (a.) Unmarried men : (b.) Married men whose marriage took place subsequent to the Ist day of May, 1915 (except such as have a child under sixteen years of age by a previous marriage) : (c.) Widowers with no children under sixteen years of age : (d.) Men whose marriages have been dissolved, and have no children under sixteen years of age. The Second Division consists of all other Reservists. Provision is made for the classification of either or both divisions of the Reserve into such classes as the Governor in Council thinks fit, and for the enrolment, of the Reserve and the preparation of a register or of registers by the Government Statistician. It is provided by section 8 that at any time during the present, war with Germany, after the Governor has directed the enrolment- of either division of the Reserve or of any class or classes thereof, the Minister of Defence may by warrant signed bv him authorize the Commandant of the Defence Forces to call up from such division, class or classes, for service with the Expeditionary Force, such number of men as the Minister thinks necessary. In pursuance of any such warrant the Commandant is required to cause the number of men specified in the warrant to be selected by lot from the men whose names appear in the register of the division, class, or classes to which the warrant relates. The names of the men so selected (together with their abodes and occupations so far as known) are thereupon to be published in the Gazette by the Minister of Defence. The notice so published is to be regarded for all purposes as affording conclusive proof that the men named therein have been lawfully called up for service with the Expeditionary Force, Every man so called up for service'is, on the day following the gazetting of the notice, deemed to be transferred from the Reserve to the Expeditionary Force, and may be required at any time thereafter to report to the military authorities at such time and place as may be specified by further notice in the Gazette.

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Section 1.5 provides that if a member of the Expeditionary Force remains in New Zealand after the units to which he is attached has left New Zealand for military service beyond the seas, he shall, unless he proves that he so remained in New Zealand through circumstances over which he had no control, or with the leave or by the orders of an officer of the Defence- Forces having military command over him, or that he had duly lodged an appeal and that such appeal had not, been determined, be deemed guilty of desertion, and liable under the Army Act and the provisions of the present Act accordingly. It is further provided by section 1.6 that if any such member leaves New Zealand, or does any act with intent, to leave New Zealand except in the course of his military service, he shall be deemed guilty of desertion and liable accordingly. In addition to any punishment to which a deserter may be liable under the Army Act the Military Service Act provides that desertion shall be punishable by imprisonment with hard labour for a term not exceeding five years. Sections 1.8 to 31 provide for the setting-up of Appeal Boards to hear appeals from persons called up for military service under the Act. Appeals may be lodged under any of the following grounds : — (1.) That when called up the appellant was not a member of the Reserve; (2.) That when called up from any division or class of the Reserve he was a member of some other division or class the calling-up of which had not been authorized; (3.) That by reason of his occupation his calling-up for military service would be contrary to the public interest; and (4.) That by reason of his domestic circumstances or for any other reason his calling-up for military service would lie a cause of undue hardship to himself or others. Provision is also made for the lodging of appeals on the ground of religious convictions. Provision, is made for the setting-up of Military Service Boards for the hearing of appeals, and also for the setting-up of a final Appeal Board to hear appeals from decisions of the Military Service Board. Rights of appeal are conferred upon the employers of members of the Reserve in certain cases as well as upon the member himself. Section 32 provides for a subdivision of the Reserve and for the preparation of separate registers for each such subdivision. If it is considered advisable so to do men may be called up for service from any specified district or districts to the exclusion of other districts. Sections 33 and 34 make provision for the enrolment of men in any division or class of the Reserve, and impose penalties for failure to enrol. Section 35 makes special, provision for cases where two or more brothers belonging to the First Division of the Reserve, and not permanently unfit for military service, have not voluntarily enlisted for such service. In any such case the Minister of Defence is empowered to call upon those brothers, or any of them, to show cause before a Military Service Board why they should not be called upon for service with the Expeditionary Force. Any person on whom a notice is served under this section has the same right of appeal to a Military Service Board as if he had been selected by lot. in the ordinary way. Supplementary provisions of the Act provide as follows : — (1.) Employers are prohibited, subject to a penalty of not less than £20 and not more than £1.00, from employing or continuing to employ Reservists who are not enrolled in the Reserve. (2.) Employers are also prohibited, subject, to a fine of not less than £50 and not more than £100, from employing or continuing to employ any deserter. (3.) Reservists are prohibited from changing their names except,'with the written consent of the Minister of Internal Affairs. (4.) Reservists are required within fourteen days to notify the Government Statistician of any change of address. (5.) After the enrolment, of the First Division of the Reserve has been directed, any constable may question any man who may reasonably be supposed to be of military age as to his name, occupation, and abode, the date and place of his birth, his enrolment in the Reserve, and any other matters relevant to the question of his membership of the Reserve or of the Expeditionary Force. Section 51 empowers the Governor by Proclamation to at, any time prohibit voluntary enlistment in the Expeditionary Force either throughout New Zealand or in any recruiting district. The issue of such a Proclamation would entail the general application throughout New Zealand or throughout the particular district concerned of the compulsory provisions of the Act. Section 52 makes provision for the compulsory vaccination or inoculation where necessary of members of the Expeditionary Force and also for the dental treatment of any such member. Section 53 empowers the Governor by Order in Council to make regulations for the attestation of members of the Expeditionary Force, and provides penalties for persons who may wilfully make false statements in any attestation paper. 1916, No. 9. The War Regulations Act, 1916.—This Act amends the War Regulations Act, Section 2 validates all regulations purporting to have been made under the War Regulations Act, 1&14, and issued before the passing of this Act.

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Sections 3 and 4 confer upon the Governor in Council further powers of making regulations with respect to — (a.) Enemy property or enemy trade; (6.) The exercise of powers by attorneys and others on behalf of members of the Expeditionary Force ; (c.) The execution of documents by members of the Expeditionary Force; (d.) The regulation of the sale of intoxicating liquor (including regulations as to treating); (e.) The suppression of prostitution ; and (/.) The maintenance of essential industries. Section 7 provides that the principal Act and this Act and all regulations thereunder shall, unless sooner repealed or revoked, remain in operation during the present war with Germany and for one year thereafter. 1916, No. 10. The Cinematograph-film Censorship Act, 1916.—-This Act provides for the appointment of Censors for the censorship of cinematograph-films, and prohibits the exhibition of any film unless it has been first approved by the Censor. 1916, No. 11. The Orchard-tax Act, 1916.—The object, of this Act is to provide funds to aid in the development of the fruitgrowing industry. It, imposes upon the occupiers of orchards an obligation to pay a tax at the rate Is. for every acre or part of an acre comprised in any such orchard. The proceeds of the tax are to be paid to the New Zealand Fruitgrowers' Federation (Limited), to be expended by it in furtherance of the interests of fruitgrowers. The Act is expressed to remain in operation until the 31st day of December, 1921, and no longer. 1916, No. 12. Native Land Amendment and Native Land Claims Adjustment Act, 1916.— This Act amends in various particulars the law relating to the administration of Native lands. Sections 10 to 14 make special provision for the setting-aside of blocks of Native land for special settlement by discharged Maori soldiers. Sections 15 and 16 amend the Maori Councils Act, 1900, with reference to the constitution of Maori Councils. The remaining sections of the Act relate to the adjustment of certain claims byNatives, and make special provisions with respect to certain specified areas of Native land. 1916, No. 13. The War Legislation Amendment Act, 1916.—Amends certain enactments having reference to the present state of war, and makes additional provisions rendered necessary or advisable by the continuance of such state of war. The Act, is divided into Parts as follows: — Part T : Restriction on Increase of Rent. Part II : Land Laws Amendment. Part 111 : Education Act Amendment. Part IV: Government Superannuation Funds. Part, V: Miscellaneous. Part 1 (restricting increases of rent) is based on the Imperial Increase of Rent and Mortgage Interest (War Restrictions) Act. It provides that no rent shall be recoverable that may be charged in respect of a dwellinghouse in excess of the standard rent. The standard rent is defined as (a) the rent at. which the dwellinghouse was let on the 3rd day of August, 1914; or (b) where the dwellinghouse was not let on that date, the rent at which it was last, let. before that date; or (c) in the case of a dwellinghouse which was let after the said 3rd day of August, 1914, means the rent at which it was first let; or (d) means (at the option of the tenant only) the lowest rent at which the house was let at any time between the 3rd August, 1914, and the 31st December, 1915. Where the standard rent as so defined is less than 8 per cent, of the capital value of the dwellinghouse the standard rent is deemed to be 8 per cent, of such value. Notwithstanding the general provisions of the Act, provision is made to permit of the increase of rent in. respect of structural alterations or in respect of any increase of rates. The provisions of this Part of the Act apply only to dwellinghouses where the standard rent does not exceed £104 per annum, and are expressed to remain in operation during the present war with Germany and for six months thereafter. ■ Part II (Land Laws Amendment) : Sections 11, 12, and 13 protect the interests of lessees or licensees of Crown lands who may be members of the Expeditionary Force. Part ITI (Education Act Amendment) : The sections in this Part are rendered necessary by the shortage of teachers occasioned by the absence of male teachers with the Expeditionary Force. Section 14 provides for the appointment of temporary teachers, and defines the rights of those teachers. Section 15 modifies the provisions of the Education Act, 1914, with respect, to the staffing of public schools, and section 16 relates to the staffing and payment of grants to secondary schools. Part IV (Government Superannuation Funds): The provisions of this Part are for the purpose of restoring superannuation and other rights to certain members of the Government service and Education service who resigned their positions for the purpose of enlisting. The Act. provides that on the reappointment of such persons to the service, and on a refund being made to the appropriate Superannuation Fund of amounts withdrawn from that fund, their rights with respect to the fund shall be restored in all respects as if their service had not been terminated. Part V (Miscellaneous): Section 18 provides for the compilation of a register recording particulars as to the deaths out of New Zealand of persons who have served out of New Zealand in connection with the present war while domiciled in New Zealand. The

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register is to be compiled by the Registrar-General from particulars to be supplied by authorized officers of the Defence Forces, and the register or a certified copy of any entry therein is to be received in any Court of justice as prima facie evidence of the facts recorded therein. Section 19 provides for the extension of the powers of certain companies engaged in the manufacture of dairy-produce without requiring such companies to proceed in the usual way to effect an alteration of their memorandum or articles of association. Section 21 protects the rights (conferred by the Law Practitioners Act, 1908) of solicitors who have left their practices to enable them to enlist with the Expeditionary Force. Section 22 protects the electoral rights of certain members of Parliament during their absence with the Expeditionary Force. Section 28 makes provision for the completion of certain indentures of apprenticeship that may have been interrupted by the enlistment of the apprentice with the Expeditionary Force. Section 32 provides for the appointment of temporary members of the Police Force during the war or within twelve months thereafter, and defines the rights, powers, privileges, and obligations of persons so appointed. Section 33 provides for the prohibition of the use for purposes of trade or business of any word associated with the history of the war, on the ground that the use of such word for any such purpose may be offensive to public sentiment. This section is primarily intended to prohibit the improper use of the word " Anzac." Section 34 (soldiers' wills): This section provides that every will made by a soldier in actual military service within the meaning of section 11 of the Wills Act (7 Will. IV and 1 Vict., c. 26) shall, if sufficient by virtue of that section to dispose of personal estate, be sufficient to dispose of real estate also. This section is deemed to have been in operation since the commencement of the present war, and is made to extend and apply to the wills and estates of all soldiers who have died between that date and the passing of the Act. Section 35 protects the superannuation rights of certain persons in the Education service during their service with an Expeditionary Force, or while out of New Zealand in any other capacity in connection with the war. Sections 36 to 40 modify the provisions of the War Funds Act, 1915. Section 41 provides for the cancellation at, the instance of the Crown of contracts for military supplies in cases where the contractor has committed a wilful breach of the terms of his contract and the supplies have not been in accordance with the specified standard. 1916, No. 14. The Reserves and other Lands Disposal and Public Bodies Empowering Act, 1916.—This Act makes provision for the exchange, sale, reservation, and other disposition of certain reserves, Crown lands, endowments, and other lands. It also validates certain transactions and confers particular powers on certain local authorities and other public bodies. 1916, No. 15. The Parliamentary Elections Postponement Act, 1916.— Section 2 of this Act extends by one year the duration of the present Parliament. Section 3 provides that for the purpose of dividing New Zealand into electoral districts there shall be taken into account the number of men ordinarily resident in New Zealand who may be out of New Zealand with the Expeditionary Force. 1916, No. 16. The Factories Amendment Act, 1916.—This Act obliges the occupiers of factories, on the demand of an Inspector of Factories, to provide sufficient heating-appliances in their factories for the comfort of their employees. 1916, No. 17. The Legislative Amendment Act, 1916.—This Act postpones until the Ist day of January, 1920, the date of the coming into operation of the Legislative Council Act, 1914 (which provides for the election of members of the Legislative Council). 1916, No. 18. The Appropriation Act, 1916. —This Act appropriates and applies certain moneys out of the Public Account and other accounts to the service of the year ending the 31st March, 1917. In addition to the usual provisions contained in the annual Appropriation Act provision is made (a) for the payment to officers employed in the Government Service (including the Education service) of moneys by way of war bonus or grants for special services; (b) for preventing unfair competition by importers of wheat or of flour into New Zealand. Section 32 provides that the Governor may on a recommendation of the Board of Trade, if satisfied that competition on unfair lines is being carried on in New Zealand by importers of wheat or flour, increase the rates of duty payable on the importation of wheat or of flour, but so that the rates shall not exceed the rates at present payable in the Commonwealth of Australia on the importation of wheat or flour into Australia. This section is expressed to remain in operation during the present war with Germany and for six months thereafter. Local and Personal Acts. 1916, No. 1 (Local). The Auckland Harbour Board Empowering Act, 1916.—This Act authorizes the Auckland Harbour Board to borrow a sum not exceeding £150,000 to be applied towards the redemption of a loan raised by the said Board under the Auckland Harbour Boards Empowering Act, 1882. 1916, No. 2 (Local). The Wanganui Borough Council Street Access Empowering Amendment Act, 1916.—This Act amends in various particulars the provisions of the Wanganui Borough Council Street Access Empowering Act, 1913.

4—A. 1.

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1916, No. 3 (Local). The City of Nelson Loans Conversion and Empowering Amendment Act, 1916. —This Act amends in various particulars the provisions of the City of Nelson Loans Conversion and Empowering Act, 1913. 1916, No. 4 (Local). The Auckland City Parks Improvement and Empowering Act, 1916.— This Act extends the powers of the Auckland City Council with respect to the improvement of the Victoria Park and other lands within the said city. 1916, No. 5 (Local). The Christehurch Rating Agreements Enabling Act, 1916.— This Act empowers the Christehurch City Council to make special arrangements with respect to the rating of areas proposed to be included within the boundaries of the said city. 1916, No. 6 (Local).-The Dunedin District Drainage and Sewerage Amendment Act, 1916.— This Act alters the constitution of the Dunedin Drainage and Sewerage Board, and otherwise amends the provisions of the Dunedin District Drainage and Sewerage Acts. 1916, No. 7 (Local). The Gisborne Borough Gas Act, 1916.—This Act empowers the Gisborne Borough Council to acquire certain gasworks and supply gas to the inhabitants of the Borough of Gisborne. 1916, No. 8 (Local), 'the Invercargill Athenaeum Act, 1916. This Act vests the Invercargill Athena-urn, its property and liabilities, in the Corporation of the Borough of Invercargill. 1916, No. 9 (Local). The Wainiakariri Harbour District and Empowering Act, 1916.—This Act constitutes the Wainiakariri Harbour District, and confers special borrowing and other powers upon the Harbour Board of that district. 1916, No. 10 (Local). The Wairau Harbour Board Loan Enabling Act, 1916.—This Act authorizes the Wairau Harbour Board to borrow moneys not exceeding £5,000 for the construction and completion of harbour-works for the purpose of improving the Wairau Harbour. 1916, No. 11 (Local). The Napier High School Amendment Act, 1916.—This Act confers on the Board of Governors of the Napier High School certain special powers with respect to the disposal of the present Napier Boys' High School premises, and the acquisition of other premises or lands from the Napier Harbour Board. 1916, No. 12 (Local). The Whakatane Harbour Amendment Act, 1916.—This Act, alters the constitution of the Whakatane Harbour Board, and otherwise amends the provisions of the Whakatane Harbour Act, 1912. 1916, No. 13 (Local). The Wellington Methodist Charitable and Educational Trusts Act, 1916.—This Act incorporates the trustees of the Wellington Methodist Charitable and Educational Endowments, and confers on the trustees certain powers with regard to the administration of such endowments. Private Act. 1.916, No. 1 (Private). The New Zealand Insurance Company Trust Act, 1916.—This Act, confers upon the New Zealand Insurance Company (Limited) certain powers to enable the said company to undertake and execute trusts of all kinds, and to act a_s trustee, executor, or administrator, receiver, guardian, committee, or in any other fiduciary position, and generally to transact all kinds of trust and agency business either gratuitously or otherwise. An application by the said company for leave to alter its memorandum of associaiton to enable it to carry on the business above referred to was confirmed bv the Court, of Appeal of New Zealand on the 27th day of July, 1911.

No. 42. New Zealand, No. 216. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 31st August, 1916. ', I.have the honour to inform you that my Government have no objection to the adoption of the procedure outlined in your despatch, No. 460, of the 23rd June, relative to the imposition of a war-tax in respect of correspondence sent from Jamaica to New Zealand. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917, No. 41.

No. 43. New Zealand, No. 217. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 31st August, 1916. I have the honour to inform you that my Government have no objection to the adoption of the procedure outlined in your despatch, No. 458, of the 22nd June, relative to the imposition of a war-tax in respect of correspondence sent from Grenada and St. Lucia. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917, No. 40

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No. 44.

New Zealand, No. 218. Sir,- Government House, Wellington, 31st August, 1916. I have the honour to inform you that my Government have no objection to the adoption of the procedure outlined in your despatch, No. 455, of the 21st June, relative to the imposition of a war-tax in respect of letters sent from St. Helena to New Zealand. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.0., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917, No. 39.

No. 45. New Zealand, No. 225. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 11th September, 1916. With reference to your despatch, No. 519, of the 10th July, I have the honour to inform you -that the suggestion of the Army Council contained therein regarding inland travelling within the dominions of officers of the British and Indian services on " loan," " attachment," and " interchange," is acceptable to the Government of New Zealand. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 46. New Zealand, No. 228. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 13th September, 1916. I have the honour to inform you that I regret to report the death, at Auckland on the 25th August last, of the Honourable Sir George Maurice O'Rorke, Knight Bachelor. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right, Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &e., Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917, No. 64.

No. 47. New Zealand, No. 232. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 14th September, 1916. With reference to your despatch, No. 471, of the 26th June, intimating that the King's exequatur empowering Monsieur Arne Scheel to act as Norwegian Consul-General at, Melbourne, received His Majesty's signature on the 29th April, I have the honour to inform you that notification of this appointment was published in the New Zealand Gazette of the 31st August, 1916. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917, No. 42.

No. 48. New Zealand, No. 252. g IR> Government House,. Wellington, sth October, 1916. I have the honour to inform you that I am advised by the Native Minister that Te Heuheu Tukino, Kingi Topia, and the Tuwharetoa Tribe of the Maori race have set aside a block of 25,301 acres of Native lands, situated

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in the district lying between Tokaanu and Napier, for the settlement of Maori soldiers returning from the war, irrespective of the tribe or tribes to which they may belong. The land is to be an absolute gift from the Tuwharetoa Tribe, and will provide settlement for a fairly large number of troops of the Native race. 2. I have sent to the Tuwharetoa people, through the Native Minister, a message expressing appreciation of the patriotic spirit which prompted them to make so generous a gift, at the same time informing them that I would bring their action under the notice of His Majesty the King. 3. I am informed that other Native tribes will in all probability follow the example of self-sacrifice which has thus been set by the Tuwharetoa people. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 49. New Zealand, No. 253. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, sth October, 1916. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 568, of the 26th July, enclosing copies of a notice issued by the Board of Trade to shipbuilders, shipowners, and shipmasters regarding ships' lifeboat compasses. 2. My Ministers inform me that steps are being taken, to make similar regulations in New Zealand. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917, No. 49.

No. 50. New Zealand, No. 254. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 9th October, 1916. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 611, of the Bth August, forwarding copies of Board of Trade instructions relative to the construction and inspection of ships' wooden lifeboats. 2. My Ministers inform me that similar instructions will be issued to New Zealand Surveyors. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917, No. 51. ( i

No. 51. New Zealand —Honours. Sir, — Government, House, Wellington, 11th October, 1916. 1 have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, " Honours,"-of the 21st July, and of the insignia and other enclosures mentioned in the despatch. 2. In compliance with your request, I beg to report that at 8.45 p.m. on Monday, 9th October, at Government House, Wellington, in the presence of

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my Ministers and a number of New Zealand gentlemen holding the distinctions of K.C.M.G. and C.M.G., and their friends—in all about, seventy persons—l held an investiture at which, in obedience to the Ring's command conveyed in His Majesty's Warrant, I conferred the honour of Knighthood upon BrigadierGeneral Alfred William Robin, C.8., duly administering the accolade, and invested him with the insignia of Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George, at the same time presenting to him a copy of the Statutes of the Order and the documents referred to in paragraphs 1 and 2 of your despatch. 3. I also availed myself of the opportunity afforded by this occasion of presenting to the Honourable Frederic William Lang the Letters Patent of Knighthood which accompanied your despatch, " Honours," of the 10th August, and of handing to Mr. John Cullen his badge as Companion of the Imperial Service Order, together with a letter containing his Warrant of Appointment and a copy of the Statutes of that Order. 4. Mr. Cullen has been requested to send direct to the Secretary of the Order an acknowledgment of the receipt of his insignia. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 52. New Zealand, No. 271. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 2nd November, 1916. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 659, of the 24th August, forwarding copies of a circular issued by the Board of Trade relating to the examination of candidates for certificates of competency as master in the mercantile marine. 2. My Ministers inform me that similar rules have been made in New Zealand, and are being published in the New Zealand Gazette. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right, Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917. No. 54.

No. 53. New Zealand, No. 274. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 3rd November, 1916. With reference to your despatch, No. 607, of the 7th August, transmitting copies of reports from His Majesty's Consuls at Vigo and Lisbon relative to the examination of asses for export from Spain and Portugal respectively to this Dominion, I have the honour to inform you that I am advised by my Ministers that in the circumstances mentioned by the Consuls referred to it is not proposed to proceed in the matter of appointing veterinarians to examine asses at Ferrol and Lisbon for the purpose stated. 2. The requirements of the regulations under the Stock Act in regard to the introduction of live-stock into New Zealand will, my Ministers consider, be sufficiently met if, in the event of it being decided to forward any asses from the countries mentioned to this Dominion, the services of a veterinarian approved by His Majesty's Consul in the country concerned be engaged to examine such animals before they are shipped. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c., Governor Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. 54. New Zealand, No. 286. Sir,— Government House, Wellington, 22nd November, 1916. I have the honour to inform you, in reply to your despatch, No. 680, of the 31st August, that my Ministers have no objection to the proposed wartax in connection with correspondence addressed to New Zealand from the Presidencies of the Colony of the Leeward Islands, referred to in the first paragraph of the despatch under reply, and that they will take action accordingly. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.0., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917, No. 55.

No. 55. New Zealand, No. 288. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 22nd November, 1916 I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 641, of the 21st August, on the subject of the Imperial College of Science and Technology, in which you inquired whether the Government of New Zealand desired to take advantage of the opportunity of appointing a representative on the governing body of the college. 2. The question has been brought under the consideration of my Ministers, who have asked me to reply in the affirmative and to state that the New Zealand Government nominates Sir Ernest Rutherford, Dean of the Board of Faculty of Science, Victoria University, Manchester, as the representative of this Dominion on the governing body of the institution. 3. Sir Ernest Rutherford has been selected on account of his high scientific standing and because of his early associations with New Zealand, the country of his birth. 4. My Ministers add that it has not been ascertained whether that gentleman is prepared to accept the appointment, but they would be much obliged if you would be so good as to approach him, expressing the pleasure which it would afford the Dominion Government if he would act as their representative. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, . Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917, No. 52.

No. 56. New Zealand, No. 295. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 25th November, 1916. I have the honour to inform you, in reply to your despatch, No. 688, of the 24th August, that there is no objection to the appointment of Mr. G. H. Baker as Consul for Peru at Auckland, and that notification of the provisional recognition of this gentleman's appointment in the capacity mentioned was published in the New Zealand Gazette of the 16th November. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. 57. New Zealand, No. 297. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, Ist December, 1916. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 727, of the 13th September, and to inform you that I am advised by my Ministers that the procedure set, out therein in regard to the issue of passports is being observed by the Government of New Zealand. I have, &c, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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