No. 139.—Petition of Jane Maria Phillips.

Petitioner alleges that, owing to herself and sister (Sophia, the well-known guide) being absent from the Taranaki District when the lands of their ancestors were adjudicated upon, they have been totally excluded therefrom, and are in consequence landless. She prays for relief.

I am directed to report that the Committee considers this a special case for the favourable consideration of the Government, and recommends that legislation be passed this session to deal with this and similar cases in setting apart land to satisfy such claims.