The Public Works Statement.

Auckland Star, Volume VI, Issue 1704, 4 August 1875, Page 3

The Public Works Statement.

Very few members were present when Mr Richard son began his public works statement, nor was there a good attendance during any portion of it. He read very quietly, and WBB received by the House similarly. There was great applause at the conclusion. Volunteers. A return was moved by Mr. Ballance that a list of militia and volunteer district officers, men, etc., be laid on the table. Grant to Natives. In reply to Mr Kelly respecting the handing over to the Ngaterangi tribe of 214,000 acres of land promised, Sir Donald McLean said he was aware of the importance of the motion, and it would be forthwith attended to. Mr. Sheehan said it would be a gross breach of public faith if it was withheld and sold from the tribe to settlers, as urged by Mr. Murray. Tauranga Lands. Mr Kelly moved the immediate sale and settlement of a large area of Government land at Tauranga, and that instructions be given to the District Engineer to survey lots. Sir Donald McLean said this was not lost sight of. When the Katikati settlers arrived would be the best time for the sale which should be held at Tauranga. Mr itolleston moved that copies of the letters of instruction from the Government to Sir Julius Vogel since last session be laid en the table. Mr Bowen replied that he had no objection that the public letters be so laid. The Speaker explained that the House had no power to order the production of the Executive communications. The House rose at nine o'clock. Public Opinion in Dunedin. Private telegrams from Dunedin state that the feeling against abolition is gaining Government there. The Otago Times sayg those ■who vote for immediate abolition need not expect re-election. Mr Macandrew declines dißcußsment of the bill. Tairua Enquiry. The Tairua Enquiry Committee met to-day Sir Donald McLean proposed Mr Curti3 as chairman, although Sir George Grey was the V, mo»er. Mr Murray proposed Sir George J *irey, which was carried. Mr £nrtis is not a member of the committee. The I business was only preliminary and unimportant, i