A.-l

28

in the district lying between Tokaanu and Napier, for the settlement of Maori soldiers returning from the war, irrespective of the tribe or tribes to which they may belong. The land is to be an absolute gift from the Tuwharetoa Tribe, and will provide settlement for a fairly large number of troops of the Native race. 2. I have sent to the Tuwharetoa people, through the Native Minister, a message expressing appreciation of the patriotic spirit which prompted them to make so generous a gift, at the same time informing them that I would bring their action under the notice of His Majesty the King. 3. I am informed that other Native tribes will in all probability follow the example of self-sacrifice which has thus been set by the Tuwharetoa people. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 49. New Zealand, No. 253. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, sth October, 1916. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 568, of the 26th July, enclosing copies of a notice issued by the Board of Trade to shipbuilders, shipowners, and shipmasters regarding ships' lifeboat compasses. 2. My Ministers inform me that steps are being taken, to make similar regulations in New Zealand. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &c, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917, No. 49.

No. 50. New Zealand, No. 254. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 9th October, 1916. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 611, of the Bth August, forwarding copies of Board of Trade instructions relative to the construction and inspection of ships' wooden lifeboats. 2. My Ministers inform me that similar instructions will be issued to New Zealand Surveyors. I have, &o, LIVERPOOL, The Right Hon. A. Bonar Law, P.C., &o, Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1917, No. 51. ( i

No. 51. New Zealand —Honours. Sir, — Government, House, Wellington, 11th October, 1916. 1 have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, " Honours,"-of the 21st July, and of the insignia and other enclosures mentioned in the despatch. 2. In compliance with your request, I beg to report that at 8.45 p.m. on Monday, 9th October, at Government House, Wellington, in the presence of