NATIVE AFFAIRS.

Taranaki Daily News, 4 November 1920, Page 4

NATIVE AFFAIRS.

THE .MINISTER MAY RETIRE. SIR WILLIAM HERRIES' WORK. By Tstegraiilt.—Press Association. Wellington, Lust Night. In 'the House of Representatives tonight, the Hon. .Sir William Herries moved Hie second reading of the Native Land Amendment and Native Land Claims Adjustment Bill (the Native "Washing-Up" Bill). The Hon. A. T. Ngata said he could give the Bill a certificate of character. It was free from anything of a dubious character, and it simply gave ell'ect to recommendation. 1 ! made by n Native Land Court Judge after an inquiry into various ma tier,s. Mr. Ngat a said it had been whispered that the present Minister of Native Affairs might not be holding that portfolio next, session, and he wished to record his high appreciation of Sir William Herries' work for the natives. At one time he had thought the Minister's policy was cold and enllous. but in Tccent years he had revealed a spirit; of justice and mercy in dealing with native affairs that evoked the respect, of natives. Mr. Ngata hoped Sir William Herries would see his way to retain the portfolio. Sir AVilliam Herries, replying, said he hoped the legislation passed during his term of office, providing among other things for the establishment of the Native Public Trust Office, would do a great deal towards clearing up many of thei difficulties connected with native affairs. Ho believed lie could leave a clean sheet if he retired from office. In conclusion, he referred to the visit of the Prince of Wales, who had expressed great apprecia tiou of the wonderful welcome given him by the natives. The Bill was read a second time on the voices.