Memorandum by Mr. Stafford.
If such a Court as the Governor suggests could be established, and the Natives be induced to refer disputes with respect to their land claims to its arbitrament, the result would be most beneficial. It is to be feared that the greatest difficulty would be found to arise from the indisposition of the more powerful chiefs to submit to decisions adverse to their pretensions. The constitution of such a Court requires consideration. Referred to the Minister for Native Affairs, and the Attorney-General, with that object. The separation of the offices referred to in the last paragraph of this memorandum can be carried out at once, and the doing so will be in accordance with a resolution of the House of Representatives last session.—E. W. Stafford.