No. 310 of 1880.—Petition of Hapi Hinaki and 143 Others.

The petitioners state that they reside between the rivers Turanganui and Uawa, and that they wish to have power to adjudicate upon all disputes arising within the district. That when the dispute is between an European and Native, it is proper to have a Native Assessor and an European Judge. That they require a seal to stamp their decisions, summonses, &c. That their laws and regulations should be brought into force in the district by Government. That their Committee should "have power to try offences committed outside of such district, provided always that the parties apply to have their cases tried there." That they should pay Government £10 (ten pounds) per annum out of the fees upon cases tried. That wherever they have adjudicated, no European Judge is afterwards to decide. That the "majority" of the petitioners think that they ought to sit once a year "to make laws and regulations"; and, in conclusion, the petitioners say that, if their request in these things be granted, they believe it will tend to their welfare, and the peace of the place.

I am directed to report as follows:—

That this petition be referred to the Government.