THE WAIMATE PLAINS CONSTABULARY.

Globe, Volume XXII, Issue 2023, 18 August 1880, Page 3

THE WAIMATE PLAINS CONSTABULARY.

[PEOSI OTTB OWW COBBEBPONDBNT.] WELLINGTON, August 17. A sensational rumor was afloat to-day that the Armed Constabulary had struok against the 10 per cent, reduction in _ pay, and had left the camps in a body, leaving the camps and stores at the mercy of the Maoris. This story is a gross exaggeration, the facts being as follows : —On the notification of the 10 per cent, reduction in pay being given to the constabulary there was a great deal of grumbling, and some of the men asserted that it was a breaoh of faith, on the strength of which they claimed their discharge. Col. Boberts, reporting this to head quarters, was instructed to forward the names of all dissatisfied with their position and who desired a change, on which it would at once be granted. Col. Boberts accordingly transmitted the names by telegraph to-day of forty-nine men who asked for their discharge. He has been instructed by Col. Eeader to inform the malcontents that the Government will grant their discharge as requested, and will moreover grant them free passages back to Wellington by the Hinemoa if they desire, so that they may not be put to any inconvenience. The Hinemoa will take up a relief party of men from Wellington to replace those who leave the force, Government having abundance of men available, including discharged policemen, a list of whom is kept ready for any such opening for their services. There is also a large reserve of suitable applicants for admission into the force, who would be glad to have a chance of serving, and could be trained sufficiently for all requirements in a very short time. It is under consideration whether the number of constabulary now on. the West Coast oould not be reduced in the altered position of Natif • affairs.