A.—2

1891. NEW ZEALAND.

DESPATCHES FROM THE SECRETARY OF STATE TO THE GOVERNOR OF NEW ZEALAND.

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by command of His Excellency.

No. 1. (Circular.) Sic,^ — Downing Street, 19th November, 1889. I have the honour to transmit to you, for publication in the colony under your government, a copy of a declaration between the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and the Government of the French Eepublic, signed at Paris on the 23rd October, 1889, with reference to the disposal of the proceeds of wrecks on their respective coasts. I have to call your attention to Article VI. of the declaration, from which you will observe that, if it is desired that the stipulations of the declaration should be made applicable to the colony under your government, notice to that effect must be given by Her Britannic Majesty's representative to the French Eepublic within one year from the 23rd October, the date of the signature of the declaration. I have therefore to request that you will be good enough to acquaint me as soon as possible of the wishes of your Government in the matter. I have, &c, KNUTSFOED. The Officer Administering the Government of New Zealand. [For enclosure see New Zealand Gazette, 6th November, 1890.]

No. 2. (Circular.) My Loed, — Downing Street, 31st March, 1890. The question has been asked in the House of Lords whether Her Majesty's Government are in possession of information regarding the most recent means adopted in the colonies and in foreign countries for the transport of civilian sick and injured by organized ambulance corps or otherwise. The information is desired for the purpose of considering the question in relation to this country, which is at present dependent on voluntary efforts alone. It seems that the object of the inquiry may be best answered by ascertaining what is the practice in the principal cities in foreign countries and in the chief colonies. I have accordingly to request that you will favour me with a full report as to the system pursued in Wellington. I have, &c, KNUTSFOED. Governor the Eight Hon. the Earl of Onslow, G.C.M.G., &c.