S.—3l

8

The larger question as to whether the Government should direct or forbid criminal prosecutions, which you decide in the affirmative, outweighs altogether the consideration as to whether or not an individual criminal should escape the penalties of an outraged law Since the centralization of government at "Wellington, I am not aware that any attempt has been made to place the relations of political Ministers and the police upon a satisfactory basis. In order that the subject may be considered this session, I have thought it best to give notice that on going into Committee of Supply I will move for the correspondence which has taken place in reference to this case, believing that it fairly illustrates the position. It is not my intention to raise any debate in moving for these papers, but at a subsequent period I would invite the co-operation of the Government in a reference of the larger question to a special Committee of the House or of the Legislative Council. I recognize so fully the inexpediency of raising a discussion upon an individual case, which is certain sooner or later to be a matter of judicial inquiry, that, if the Government should decide not to agree to the production of the correspondence, I do not see how justice can be promoted or private liberty protected. Would you be so good as to inform me as soon as possible if the Government will agree to allow the correspondence to be laid upon the table, in the terms of the motion I have given notice of, a copy of which I attach hereto ? I have, &c, The Hon. W Rolleston, Minister of Defence. C. A. De Latttotjb.

No. 19. The Hon. Mr. Rolleston to Mr. De Latjtotjh. Slß,— Wellington, 11th August, 1881. In reply to your letter of tlie Bth instant, I have the honor to inform you that there will be no objection to the correspondence you ask for being produced. I have, &c, C. A. De Lautour, Esq., M.H.E. W Rolleston.

By Authority : Geobqb Didsbuky, Government Printer, Wellington. —1881.