JULY 1.] THE NEW ZEALAND GAZETTE. 1417

The administration of the Cook Islands is proceeding satisfactorily. The changes consequent on their being included within the boundaries of New Zealand have been effected without friction, and the Natives seem perfectly contented with the new order of things. Figures relative to the trade of the Islands will be placed before you. As the Act expires soon after the close of the session an amending Bill will be necessary.

Trade with South Africa has developed during the year, and I am happy to say that a considerable portion of it has come to New Zealand. Much difficulty has been experienced in obtaining suitable steamers for carrying on a direct service, but it is expected that the negotiations which have been proceeding for some time will be successfully completed. My Ministers are of opinion that it is advisable to appoint commercial agents in the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Australia without delay, with a view to obtaining increased markets for our produce.

Pursuant to statutory provision in that behalf, Representation Commissioners have met for the purpose of readjusting the boundaries of the electoral districts on the basis of the last census, and assigning electorates to the six additional seats created by “The Representation Act, 1900.” Their report will be submitted to you at the earliest possible date.

Since the last session of Parliament I have visited various parts of the colony and am happy to inform you that upon all sides I found evidence of the progress and prosperity of the people.

MR. SPEAKER, AND GENTLEMEN OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,—

Notwithstanding many heavy and unusual items of non-recurring expenditure and the large concessions made to the public in railway charges, Customs duties, and postage rates, the result of the year’s operations has been satisfactory. The revenue has kept up, and a substantial balance stood to the credit of the colony at the end of the financial year.

Estimates for the year, prepared with the strictest economy consistent with efficiency, will, in the ordinary course, be placed before you for consideration.

HONOURABLE GENTLEMEN OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, AND GENTLEMEN OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,—

Measures will be submitted dealing with the electoral laws, so as to bring them more in touch with the existing circumstances of the colony; they will include the Referendum Bill, which was passed last session by one branch of the Legislature.

A Bill providing for State fire-insurance will also be introduced.

Some necessary amendments in the Land Act, including proposals for rebates to Crown tenants, will likewise be submitted.

You will also be asked to consider a measure making provision for the aged and retired officers of the Railway Service.

The labour legislation is working with reasonable smoothness, considering the complex interests involved, but some amendments of a detail nature may be necessary.

Under the Act of last session a State coal-mine has been purchased, and my Ministers hope it will soon be in working-order. The Point Elizabeth Railway and Coal Company’s Railway has been acquired in connection with it.

In the opinion of my Advisers the question of preventing combinations by which the prices of food-supplies are improperly raised to consumers is of importance, and should be considered.

You will be asked to make provision for the important work of prosecuting the trunk lines of railway, as well as of carrying on other lines now in course of construction.