THE MINING- CONFERENCE.

Cromwell Argus, Volume 2, Issue 80, 23 May 1871, Page 6

THE MINING- CONFERENCE.

0 — {For report of Tuesday's proceedings, see page 7.) WEDNESDAY, MAY 17. A letter was read from His Honor the Superintendent, containing the following suggestions : —l. The consideration of legislation affecting the Goldfields, with a view of making practical suggestions as to the amendment and consolidation of existing Acts. 2. The recommendation of such alterations in the Regulations as may be suitable to the present condition of Goldmining. 3. The application of Part HI, of the Immigration and Public Works Act to the goldfields. His Honor thinks that the most economical, practical, and speedy mode in which the limited amount obtainable by this province can be applied is bjr advancing money on loan at not exceeding 5J per cent, to companies already in existence, or which may be formed hereafter, the Government to advance the money upon such terms ad shall recoup itself, and as shall provide for the supply of water at the lowest possible rates. The following is the substance of the reply of the Conference : “As the consolidation o| the various Statutes affecting the Goldfields appears to be the primary duty of your Commissioners, and as the future regulations of the Otago goldfields must be based on the consolidated and amended Statutes, they suggest that the consideration of the latter subject be postponed until the amended Statute is before them. They therefore suggest that upon the conclusion of their inquiries upon the other subjects remitted to them, they should adjourn their sittings unt : l after the next session of the General Assembly. The suggestions on' Part 111. of the Immigration and Public Works Act will receive earnest consideration.”

THURSDAY, MAY IS. The Commissioners were engaged yesterday and to-day in considering suggestions, advisable aa amendments and alterations in the Goldfields Act, 18GG. On the motion of Mr Shepherd, it was agreed that clause 21 of the Goldfields Act shall apply to Crown lands as well as to private lands ; and it was agreed that a sub-committee, consisting of the Chairman, Messrs Roberts and Marshall (delegate from the Dunstan district) be appointed to consider and report what provisions and byelaws of the Victorian Mining Statute should be recommended for adoption by the Commission.