NATIVE LAND COMMISSION.

King Country Chronicle, Volume II, Issue 72, 6 March 1908, Page 2

NATIVE LAND COMMISSION.

The Native Land Commission concluded a silting at Otorohanga on Saturday last and adjourned to Te Kuiti on slond.jy. Business was commenced at Te Kuiti on Tuesday, Sir Robert Stout, Chief justice, presiding. The present sittings have been rendered necessary in consequence of the insertion of the clause in the Act of last year making it arbitrary for the Native owners to sell half and lease half of all land placed with the Commission for dealing with. At the previous sitting many blocks were placed in the hands of the Commission, for lease, sale, and .Maori occupation. In view of the arbitary clause it has now become necessary to revise all previous work, as many ol those wishing to lease do not wish to sell; others willing to sell (.In n"i wish to lease.

Upon being interviewed on the . uh~ ject, Sir Robert Stout said he failed to see the utility of the arbitrary clause. It had the effect of complicating matters considerably, and also inspired the Natives with a feel ins; of mistrust, thus makin.e, it much more diflicult to deal with them.

The Government had purchased interests in a number of blocks which had been placed with the Commissioner by the Native owners, and until a Land Court sat, and the Government interests were cut out, it would be impossible to deal with these areas. It was expected a Land Court would sit at Te Kuiti this month. The Maoris are anxious to deal with their lands, and new areas of considerable extent are being placed vvith the Commission. The present sitting at Te Kuiti is expected to conclude this week.