OTAGO.

Lyttelton Times, Volume X, Issue 637, 15 December 1858, Page 4

OTAGO.

By the Lord Ashley we have papers from Dunedin to the I.lth inst.

There had been no arrivals from England since previous advices, and none from Sydney to so late dates as we have received. l^ocal intelligence is scanty. The proceedings of the Land Board, especially an alledged weak compliance with an improper demand from the Colonial Secretary as to stocking a run belonging to that honorable gentleman, draw down animadversions from the press of no complimentary character.

The Collector of Customs has received and published a letter from the Imperial Emigration Commissioners commending, the activity of the Otago Bench of Magistrates in bringing to punishment the misdemeanours of masters of emigrant ships. The letter indicates that although a ship may have received the certificate of the officer in London or elsewhere, the master is still liable to a penalty for shortcomings even in those points, such as fittings, &c, which must have passed under inspection. Mr. Macandrew, hitherto member of General Assembly for the town of Dunedin, did not it appears, attend the late session, nor obtain leave of absence; he is therefore, by the provisions of the Constitution Act deposed from his seat. Accordingly a writ is issued for a new election on the 12th of January. Immigration by Provincial Government funds granted in the late session of the Council is about to be resumed.