A.—2

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those interests specially into his own personal consideration, in conjunction with such advice as aforesaid." Her Majesty's Government are prepared, should it be thought desirable, to submit to Her Majesty the question of the substitution for the corresponding clause in the present Instructions to the Governors of the Australasian Colonies of a clause similar to that contained in the Canadian Eoyal Instructions; but before taking any further step in the matter they seek to be informed whether your Ministers desire such a change. I have only to add that it is desirable, as far as possible, to secure uniformity of action upon this important question. I have, &c, Knutsford.

Enclosure 2. Lord Kintore to Lord Knutsford. My Lord, — Government House, Adelaide, 29th June, 1891. On the 22nd of June the Governor of New Zealand forwarded to me, at the suggestion of his Ministers, copies of despatches which had passed between your Lordship and himself with reference to the exercise of the prerogative of mercy in capital cases, with a request that I would submit them to my Ministers for their consideration. This I have done, and the outcome of their attention having been drawn to the matter is that the Prime Minister begs that the views of the Government on this matter may be communicated to your Lordship. My Government would learn with satisfaction that the General Instructions to Governors of Australasian Colonies are likely to be amended at an early date by an Instruction that in exercising the prerogative of mercy in capital cases Governors are to act upon the advice of their Besponsible Ministers. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. Lord Knutsford, G.C.M.G. Kintore. Approximate Cost of Paper —Preparation, nil; printing (1,350 copies), £12 10s.

Authority: Geobge Didsbuby, Government Printer, Wellington.—lB92.

Price, 9d.]