RESOLUTIONS PASSED BY THE CHAMBER OF MINES (AT A MEETING HELD IN DUNEDIN ON THE 10th JUNE, 1890).

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1890 Session I, C-08

C— 8.

1890. NEW ZEALAND.

RESOLUTIONS PASSED BY THE CHAMBER OF MINES (AT A MEETING HELD IN DUNEDIN ON THE 10th JUNE, 1890).

Laid on the Table by the Hon. T. Fergus, with the Leave of the House.

Copy of Resolutions passed at a Meeting op the New Zealand Chambeb op Mines HELD IN DUNEDIN ON THE lOtH JUNE, 1890. Besolved : — That this Chamber respectfully urges upon the Government the necessity of providing for twoclasses of certificates for mining managers under "The Mining Act, 1886," and "The Coal-mines Act, 1886." That steps be taken to promote legislation in the direction of a Bill issued by the British Parliament, with the view of making directors of mining companies responsible for the statements made in the prospectuses. That mining leases be made chattel-property similar to water-races as at present. That the rate of rent on mining leases and licensed holdings be reduced to ss. per acre per annum for the first three years, and 10s. per acre per annum afterwards, so as to bring about greater uniformity with the present regulation which allows holders of miners' rights to hold one acre; and that holders of existing licenses have the option of surrendering and taking fresh leases under these conditions. That quartz-prospecting areas be extended to 50 acres. That the gold duty be abolished. That any person desirous of becoming a recognised broker in connection with dealing in mining companies shall, before being allowed to act as such, be required to publicly apply to the Eesident Magistrate on a certain fixed day for a license, such license to be renewed annually, and application to be made in such a manner that any valid objection or complaint against the previous conduct or present character of the applicant shall be heard and determined at the time, and the license be either granted or refused. Broker so registered to be protected by his license, and no person to act as such without license under a penalty to be provided for. Brokers so registered should not be allowed to act as legal managers or secretaries of mining companies. That the rate of stamp duty on transfers of mining shares and interests be reduced to Is. for every £100 of value or fractional part thereof, as much larger numbers of stamped forms would thus be used, and greater regard given to compulsory registration of transfers. That the Government be asked to give all possible publicity regarding any application by the Midland Railway Company for any portions of the land set apart for them, or in the case of any Crown land similarly situated, so that the public and those interested may have an opportunity of objecting in case any of such grounds may be considered auriferous, or the same be required for coal and timber for mining purposes. Edmund Claeke, Honorary Secretary.

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