5

1.—5

And the question being put, it was resolved in the affirmative. Resolved, That the sum to be paid be £2,000 per annum, the time of closing to be one hour earlier than at present, except during the session and on other special occasions as now arranged; or, at the option of the Association, the payment to be £3,000 per annum, with the present hours. Resolved, on motion of Mr. Ormond, That the agreement be subject to a condition that other newspapers be admitted to the advantages of the Association on payment of the ordinary subscription and payment of the following entrance-fees :— Daily papers, in Auckland, "Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin—Morning, not exceeding £150; evening, not exceeding £75. In all other places, either daily morning or evening, not exceeding £50. Papers published at longer intervals than one day to be charged such entrance-fee, not exceeding £50, as may be agreed on. Resolved, on motion of Mr. Pulton, That no agreement be entered into with any person or association on more favourable terms than are provided for in the foregoing resolutions, nor unless the terms proposed shall have been previously advertised for two months in the Government Gazette. Resolved, on motion of Mr. Pulton, That the benefits of an agreement on the above-named conditions shall not be confined necessarily to one association, but the same terms shall be conceded to other associations or persons if desired. The Committee then adjourned.

"Wednesday, 4th Attgttst, 1880. The Committee met pursuant to notice. Present: Hon. Mr. Gisborne (Chairman), Hon. Mr. Hall, Mr. Barron, Mr. Fulton, Mr. Ireland, Mr. Murra\r, Mr. Shephard. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed. A letter dated the 3rd August, received from Mr. E. T. GOlon, in reference to the report of the evidence given by him before the Committee on the 13th July, 1880, was read, and ordered to be printed. (Vide Appendix A, No. 6.) The Chairman submitted a draft report, and it was resolved that the same be adopted, and presented to the House. {Vide page 1.) Resolved, That the minutes of proceedings and evidence taken before the Committee be presented to the House when printed. The Committee then adjourned.