No. 21.—Petition of John Runciman.

Petitioner states that a portion of the land called Tauwhare, which had been set aside for the rebel Natives who had returned to their allegiance, was purchased from them by him for £700. He proceeded to occupy and improve the land, when the Hon. J. Bryce (then Native Minister) gave instructions to the Commissioner of Crown Lands to sell the said land, whereby the petitioner has lost the whole of the money which he has expended thereon. He prays for an inquiry.

I am directed to report as follows: That the Committee has no recommendation to make.