H.—27.

as the Hon. Mr.. Bryce, the Minister who sanctioned- the long-service pay, was then a sitting member and never questioned the accuracy of that report, I naturally concluded it was correct." There are certain cases reputed to be worse than the diseases they affect to heal. Your original statement on this point was weak enough, but this reason in its support is weaker still. 1 thought it right, however, in the interests of the Force, to ask Mr. Bryce for his view of the matter, and I annex his reply for your information. I presume this point may thereby be regarded as conclusively settled. Your denial of unanimity in the Force regarding the scheme may be easily settled. Of course, there are a few stand out, but if you are willing to test the question by a ballot, which can be freely taken, I am quite content, and the men will be quite content, to abide by the result. May I hope, in view of the facts I have now stated, and under all the circumstances, that you will reconsider your decision, and take up this scheme, not so nluch as I have presented it to you—l am not wedded to details—but as a basis from which you can work out a safe and operative superannuation for the Force? I have, &c, The Hon. B. J. Seddon, Minister of Defence, Wellington. William Hutchison.

Exteact from Lettee, 23rd July, 1892. —Hon. John Beyce to William Hutchison. " I have to say in reply to your letter that the idea of a pension is essentially distinct from a long-service allowance, and was not in contemplation when the long-service allowance was granted to the Police Force. The allowance was made merely for what it purports to bo, a recognition of long service. I cannot admit that lam responsible for Mr. Gudgeon's assumptions merely because I did not contradict them in the House. You will, perhaps, agree with me that such a doctrine, if established, would add greatly to the discomfort of public men." Approximate Cost of Paper— Preparation, nil; printing (1,300 copies), £3 15a.

By Authority : George Didsbtjby, Government Printer, Wellington,—lB92. Price, 6d.J

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