No. 156, 1902.—Petition of Te Pakoura and 15 Others.

Petitioners pray for refund of moneys paid in connection with the Ruatoki cases before the Native Land Courts, on the ground that the Court acted without jurisdiction, and the said cases were absolutely fruitless.

I am directed to report that the Committee strongly recommends that the costs and deposit in connection with the case before the Appellate Court, amounting to £55 2s, should be refunded.