A HARD CASE.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LV, Issue 282, 28 March 1913, Page 8

A HARD CASE.

RESIDENCE OX CROWN SECTION.

By Telegraph—Press Association. Wellington, Thursday

What was claimed to be a typical case of the failure of a Crown settler to reside on his holding under the Land for Settlement Act came before the Land Board to-day. The holder attended the meeting, and applied for exemptoin in order that he could hold his land and yet reside in Masterton.. His holding was IS miles, from Masterton, ■but he had a family of grown-up daughters, who found occupations in Masterton, which they could not do if they were compelled to reside on his holding. He wont to the land three times a week.

The Commissioner pointed out that the man must reside continuously on bis section; otherwise it would be forfeited.

Applicant pointed out that he derived \ his sole source of income from the see-j tion, and it was the only occupation he' had. ' 1

A member of the Board testified to tlie fact that applicant was an excellent settler; and the opinion was also expressed that if the Act could be relaxed the Board would get better settlers an<? fewer speculators. Other members favored the proper observance of the Act, Jiowever much they might sympathise with applicant; otherwise they feared an undesirable precedent would be set up. The Board, decided to consider the case further in committee.