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demand for water at present rates considerably exceeds the supply, your Committee is therefore of the opinion that it would be inexpedient to reduce the price of water, and recommend that the system which has hitherto prevailed for years under successsive administrations—viz., that on the recommendation of the race-manager, after inquiry, free water be granted for prospecting ground, for opening up new claims, and for working poor ground, be continued. 16th September, 1891.

No. 177. —Petition of Michael Hennessey and Others, of Kumara. Petitioned pray for a refund of a fine imposed by Mr. Warden Eawson. I am directed to report that the petitioner has an equitable claim against the colony, and recommend that the petition be referred to the favourable consideration of the Government. 18th September, 1891.

No. 74. —Petition of Edwabd Loughnan, of Teremakau. Petitioned, who is a settler on the Teremakau Special Settlement, Westland, states that, owing to his absence from the district in 1888, the year in which the Teremakau Eiver was proclaimed a sludge-channel, he did not become aware of the fact until the time had expired for filing a claim for compensation, and that now he is debarred from claiming any compensation. He states that he has suffered great loss, and prays to have his claim heard. I am directed to report that the Committee recommend that the Government do not take advantage of the neglect of the petitioner to file his claim in the time required by law, but that they should allow his claim to be heard on its merits. 18th September, 1891. [Approximate Cost of Paper— l'reparation, nil; printing (1,200 copies), £ 1175.]

By Authority: Geobgk Didsbury, Government Printer, Wellington.—lB9l. Price, 3d.]