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No. 450.—Petition of Alfred Rippon. Praying that he be allowed to retain Section lo of the Kurupuni Settlement, at Masterton, at its original stated area detailed in surveyor's plan—viz., 165 ft. by 102 ft.—upon which basis purchase was made. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 18th October, 1917.

Reserves and other Lands Disposal and Public Bodies Empowering Bill. The Lands Committee, to which was referred the above-mentioned Bill, has the honour to report that it has carefully considered the same, and recommends that it be allowed to proceed without, amendment. 25th October, 1917.

No. 384.—Petition of W. Quarterman and 15 Others. Praying for redress and relief in respect of damage to their lands (Awaiti Section of the Northern District of the Ohinemuri Survey District), caused by the overflowing of the Waihou River. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends that, the Government grant such relief, by the erection of protective works or otherwise, as will enable settlers to make a living out of their holdings, and that a remission of one or more years' rent be granted, as may be found equitable. 27th October, 1917.

No. 441..—Petition of W. J. Hunt. Praying for redress in respect of loss of timber rights of Native land (Ngarara Block) caused through alleged retrospective legislation—viz., the Ngarara and Waipiro Reinvestigation Act, 1889. I am directed to report that consideration of this petition by the Lands Committee be held over till next session, and that the Government be recommended to. obtain the Solicitor-General's opinion as to the validity of petitioner's claim under agreement dated the 17th October, 1887, and other documents upon the departmental file of the Native Department. 27th October, 1917.

Final Report. I have the honour to report that the Lands Committee has during the session held eighteen meetings, the average attendance being nine members at each meeting. The number of petitions referred to the Committee was twenty-nine, the number of papers one, the number of Bills fifteen, all of which have been reported upon to the House. 27th October, 1917.

• Special Report. The Lands Committee, while acknowledging the close attention which the Chairman (Mr. E. Newman) has devoted to all matters which have come up for consideration, desires to place on record its appreciation of the courteous and able manner in which ho has presided over its deliberations during the session. 27th October, 1917.

Special Report. I am directed to report that the Lands Committee desires to place on record its appreciation of the good service rendered by the Clerk (Mr. S. T. Patterson), who has discharged his duties with diligence and tact, and recommends to the Government that his services as a Committee Clerk lie permanently retained. 27th October, 1917.

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