No. 459.—Petition of Wiremu Kauika.

Petitioner alleges that the sum of £5,411, being balance of purchase-money of the Kaitangiwhenua Block, was stolen by a Government land-purchase officer, named William Williams. He prays that steps be taken to recover the money, and that in future such men he not employed by the Government.

I have the honour to report that, as the Committee are advised a Royal Commission is to be appointed to investigate the allegations of the petitioner, they have not thought it necessary to inquire into the matter; they, however, recommend that the petition be referred to the Government.