POLITICAL INTELLIGENCE.

Oamaru Mail, Volume IV, Issue 1319, 17 August 1880, Page 2

POLITICAL INTELLIGENCE.

(from our own correspondent. ) Wellington, August 17.

The Public Petitions Committee have reported to the House on the petition of the miners at Maerewhenua to have the Maerewhenua River proclaimed a watercourse under tho Mines Act, for the discharge of tailings. The Committee recommend the adoption of one of two alternatives, either the purchase of the riparian rights or the gold-mining interest. The Committee feel that they must leave the decision with the Government. The members for the district are endeavoring to bring matters to an issue. Major Atkinson, last night, while refusing a definite answer, when pressed for the Government's intention re taxing Bills, stated generally that as soon as the Estimates were brought down, he would bring forward the Bills which would all be needed. It is said that the Government have paid Dr Pollen the amount of LI7OO illegally claimed by him as pension, but which claim was not acceded to by the late Government, acting under the advice of Messrs. Stout and Reid (SolicitorGeneral). Seeing that the amount was smuggled into the Estimates, and disguised by gross misi'epresentation, to keep within the bounds of Pai-liamentary language, it is not surprising that the question is pretty common, Cannot the Ministry be compelled to refund the amount ? The matter will develop itself in a day or two.

The West Coast Settlement Bill bestows every good upon a favored locality. It is peculiarly a Taranaki measure, and places unlimited power in the hands of the Government. The attempt to force it on the House will create a prolonged discussion, which must end in the rejection of the Bill.

The Hon. R. Campbell and the members for Waitaki interviewed Mr. Oliver to-day regarding the Railway Station. He promised to improve the present site by adding a refreshment-room and verandah, and making other desirable alterations ; but it is his firm resolve not to change the site or to erect a new building. The Government carefully conceal their intentions regarding the programme to be followed, and repudiate the truth of yesterday's rumor. The impression is that the rumor was circulated to test the feelings of the House. There can be little doubt that the session will close next week.

The writer of " Passing Isotes " in the Otago Daily Times impugned the accuracy of my statement that the transference of Sir Hercules Robinson to the Cape means a reduction. I have sent you information which, it appears, bears out my statement.

There will be strong opposition to the Otago Central Railway.