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The Gold Duty Beduction Bile: The Goldfields and Mines Committee, to whom was referred the above Bill, have the honour to report that they have considered the same, and recommend that it be passed with the amendments shown in the annexed copy of the Bill. 20th July, 1886.

No. 405.—Petition op James Buttebwobth. The petitioner states that he is the owner of a water-race and rights in the district of Charleston, and that the Government, being owners of the Afgyle Bace, adjoining petitioner's property, are unduly entering into competition with him in the sale of water. He prays the Government to purchase his water-race and rights, or afford him other relief. ■' I; am 1 directed,to report that the Committee, having carefully considered the evidence, are of opinion that they cannot recommend the Government to purchase the water-race and rights referred to in the petition. 3rd August, 1886. ■

feom the Goldfields and Mines Committee. That, in the opinion of this Committee, it is desirable, for the development of the west coast of the Middle Island, to extend the steam service so as to serve the population at Dusky Bay, Milford .and other Sounds, and Martin's Bay Settlement. 13th August, 1886. {Approximate Cost of Paper.— Preparation, nil; Printing (1,250 copies), 19s. 3d.]

By Authority: G-eobge Didsbury, Government Printer, Wellington.—lBB6.

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