POLITICAL JOTTINGS.

Hokitika Guardian, 11 February 1922, Page 4

POLITICAL JOTTINGS.

TE KOQII’S CHURCH. , ' A clause in the Native “WashingUp” Bill, reserving an area of land in Waimana parish for Ringtu Clnirch was deleted from the Bill by the Legislative Council, upon a statement by a Bay' of Plenty councillor that it appeared to he an endowment of a, pernicious leligious sect. Quite another aspect of the matter was pint to the House? of Representatives by the Native Minister, the Hon J. G. Coates tp-dav when the amendment came before the House foi Uonsideraition. He moved that the clause he reinstated, explaining that the land was given to Te Kooti in the early days, and his descendants were entitled to it.

Mr P. Fraser; Then let- them have it

Mr Coates went on to say that many of Te ICooti’s descendants had been lost sight of, and the only people who could lie recognised were those who followed his particular form of religion, therefore it was 'intended that the land should he vested in a. committee to he set up to the' satisfaction of the Government.

Mr Jennings remarked that the Native Affairs Committee of the House took evidence on the matter. He wanted to know if the Council took similar action.

Mr Coates replied in the negative and on his motion tho Council’s deletion of the clause was made the subject of a message of dissent.