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No. 229. —Petition of Ralph Cleveland, of 64 Ellis Street, Frankton Junction. Praying for compensation for loss of health while employed by the Railways Department, or, alternatively, some other substantial compassionate grant. I am directed to report that in the opinion of the Committee the petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 22nd October, 1930.

No. 387/1929. —Petition of S. P. Evans, of Auckland. Praying for compensation in respect of patents used by the Railways Department. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 29th September, 1930.

No. 399/1929. —Petition of J. L. Vartha and 17 Others, of Addington. Praying that their contributions to Railway superannuation be based on a higher rate of pay than now receiving. I am directed to report that in the opinion of the Committee this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 29th September, 1930.

No. 413/1929. —Petition of Henry Charles Went, of 7 Lenton Road, Bromley, Christchurch. Praying for compassionate relief in respect of loss on a carrying business alleged to be due to unjust competition by the Railways Department. I have the honour to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 10th October, 1930.

Taupiri Coal Contracts. I am directed by the Railways Committee to report that, the files of the Railways Department relating to the Taupiri coal contracts having been placed before the Committee by the Hon. the Minister of Railways in accordance with his promise to this House, the Committee finds itself unable to proceed without an order of the House defining the scope of the Committee's inquiry ; and I am directed to request that such order of reference be made by the House. 29th September, 1930.

Special Report. I have the honour to report that the members of the Railways Committee desire to express their appreciation of the ability and courtesy displayed during the session by Mr. J. T. Hogan, as Chairman, in the conduct of the business of the Committee ; and, further, that this resolution be recorded in the minutes of the Committee, and also that it be reported to the House. J. A. Nash, Member of the Committee. 22nd October, 1930.

Special Report. I have the honour to report that the members of the Railways Committee desire to express their appreciation of the capable and efficient manner in which their Committee Clerk, Mr. H. K. Hawken, has during this session carried out his duties ; and further, that this resolution be recorded in the minutes of the Committee, and also that it be reported to the House. 25th October, 1930.

Final Report. I have the honour to report that the Railways Committee, consisting of ten members, has during the session held seven meetings, with an average attendance at each meeting of six members. Twelve petitions were referred to the Committee, all of which were finally dealt with and reported upon to the House. J. T. Hogan, Chairman. 25th October, 1930.

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