Reports of the Native Affairs Committee, 1899.

No. 239.—Petition of John Morris and 34 Others

No. 239.—Petition of John Morris and 34 Others.

Petitioners, who are the lessees of Kaiapoi Native Reserves, fearing that recent decisions in regard to Maori wills in connection with the lands occupied by them may upset their titles, pray that legislation may be passed setting at rest all matters of dispute, and guaranteeing them security of tenure.

I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the above-mentioned petitions should be referred to the Government, and that a case should be stated by the Native Appellate Court as soon as possible for the Supreme Court, in order to test the validity of Native wills in regard to Native lands under all classes of restrictions.

17th August, 1899.