I.—lo.

2

The Eight Hon. the Prime Minister to the Chairman of the Committee. Prime Minister's Office, Wellington, 30th July, 1920. Dear Sir, — I have to inform yon that the Government is exceedingly anxious, in view of the conditions existing in this country at present, and the necessity for arriving at a proper understanding in regard to getting our products away from the Dominion to the different markets of the world, that the Agricultural and Pastoral Industries, Stock, and Commerce Committee should take in hand an inquiry—firstly, as to whether sufficient shipping is likely to be available for the purpose of our trade, especially the export of our produce, during the next few years; and, secondly, to arrive at a definite understanding with the shipping companies as to what the rates of freight are likely to be, especially for wool, meat, dairy-produce, and flax. The Committee has power to call for persons and papers, and you will, of course, take into consideration increases in wages and cost of coal, and, generally, the cost of running ships as compared with the pre-war period. I shall be glad if you will let me know what you think of this proposal. Tours faithfully, W. P. Massey The Chairman Agricultural and Pastoral Industries, Stock, and Commerce Committee, House of Representatives, Wellington.

REPOETS. No. 38. —Petition of W. Stuart Wilson, of Wellington. Praying that all practicable measures be taken as soon as possible to facilitate the promotion and efficient maintenance of agricultural clubs for boys and girls. I am directed to report that in the opinion of the Committee the petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 20th September, 1920.

No. 51. —Petition of I. H. Reid and 8 Others. Praying for reimbursement of the levy on butterfat. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends that this petition be referred to the Butter Prices Inquiry Committee for consideration. 21st September, 1920.

No. 162. —Petition of the New Zealand Farmers' Co-operative Association of Canterbury (Limited) and 7 Others (and 8 similar Petitions as per Schedule attached). Praying for a reconsideration of the price of butter. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends that these petitions be referred to the Butter Prices Inquiry Committee for consideration. 21st September, 1920. Schedule. No. 163. —George Kirkpatrick and 40 others. No. 167.—Lindsay and Co. and 15 others. No. 164.—Gelling Bros, and 7 others. No. 168.— T. C. Tyson. No. 165.—Roberts and Tullock and 17 others. No. 169.— H. W. Mockett and 64 others. No. 166. —Robert Johnson and 4 others. No. 184.— G. F. Hingston and 5 others.

Excise Tariff Bill. I am directed to report that in the opinion of this Committee the provisions of the Bill are a matter of policy, therefore the Committee has no recommendation to make. Ist October, 1920.

No. 237.—Petition of Donald Kerr, of Wellington. Praying for payment of salary from June, 1898, to October, 1902, and other relief; also for suitable employment in the Public Service. I am directed to report that in the opinion of the Committee this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 20th October, 1920.