1.—6

4

No. 626 (1914). —Petition of Gavin Weir, of Upper Orewa, Silverdale. Praying for an inquiry into the matter of his dismissal from the management of the State sawmills of Kakahi. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make with regard to this petition. 7th October, 1915.

No. 251. —Petition of Isabella M. Glass, of Mercer. (Second Report.) Praying for compensation for loss by fire alleged to have been caused by a spark from a railwayengine. I am directed to report that, owing to there being insufficient evidence to show the origin of the fire that damaged the property, the Committee has no recommendation to make with regard to the petition. 7th October, 1915.

Special Report. I am directed to report that the Committee places on record its high appreciation of the services of the Chairman, Mr. David Buick, and its recognition of the able and impartial manner in which he conducted the business of the Committee. 7th October, 1915.

Special Report. I am directed to report that a vote of thanks was passed to the Clerk, Mr. J. L. Higgie, for the able manner in which he has carried out his duties during the session, and the Committee recommends that the Government appoint him permanently, and also that he be found employment during the recess. 7th October, 1915.

Final Report. I have the honour to report that the Railways Committee held its final meeting on the 6th October, 1915. During the session the Committee met on 12 occasions, the average attendance being 7. The ■Committee had before it for consideration 16 petitions, which were dealt with as follows :— Referred to the Government for consideration ... ... ... ... 2 Referred to the Government for favourable consideration ... ... 3 The Committee had no recommendation to make upon ... ... ... 10 One petition is held over for consideration next session. The number of reports brought down by the Committee and presented to the House was 21. 7th October, 1915.

Approximate Cost of Paper. —Preparation, not given ; printing (650 copies), £2 10h .

Authority : John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington.—l9ls

Price 3d.]