No. 36.—Petition of Daniel James McEwen.

Petitioner complains that, owing to the retrospective nature of "The Native Equitable Owners Act, 1886," he is unable to complete the purchase of the Paparoa Block, Kaipara District, and prays for redress.

I am directed to report that this Committee sympathises with the petitioner in the hardships he has suffered, but, inasmuch as he failed to acquaint himself with the provisions of the law before he acquired his supposed right to purchase, there is no recommendation to make.