No. 201.—Petition of Te Wirihana te Keha and Others.

The petitioners allege that they have never been disloyal to the Queen, but on the contrary assisted the European forces in the Waikato war, on the distinct understanding that their property would be protected. They state that their losses were inquired into, and compensation awarded, which has never been paid; and they pray for relief.

I am directed to report that the question of the granting of compensation for losses suffered by individuals, whether Europeans or of the Native race, during the war, has been so often reported on by Select Committees and considered by the House that the Committee do not deem it necessary to enter into the subject at any length. The Committee do, however, hold an opinion that many of these claims are founded on justice. The Committee would add that they have no reason to doubt the correctness of the allegation made by the petitioners that they have been always loyal to the Queen.