No. 23.—Petition of Henry Alley.

The petitioner, who is a European, states that in the year 1872 he entered into negotiations for the lease of a block of land in the Upper Thames Valley, and subsequently obtained it from the Native owners. That his occupation of the said leasehold was objected to by the Government agents—Messrs. Clarke and Puckey—and that his cattle were driven off by Natives, at the instigation, as he believes, of the said Government agents. Petitioner prays that his statement may be investigated by persons unconnected with the Native Department, and that he may be reinstated in possession of his leasehold, and that such other relief may be given him as the House may deem fit.

I am directed to report as follows:—

That this petition be referred back to the Classification Committee, as it does not appear to involve any question of Native affairs.