§ SIR JOHN TRELAWNYsaid, he rose pursuant to notice, to move—
That this House has heard with surprise and concern that the Governor of New Zealand has used Forces, entrusted to him by Her Majesty for the protection of the inhabitants and the impartial administration of affairs within that Colony, in depriving several of Her subjects of certain property in land situate on the River Waitara, such property having been tendered for purchase by Teira, a member of the Ngatiawa Tribe, who had no power to sell without the consent of his chieftain, Wiremu Kingi.This was a subject that affected the honour of the House of Commons, and if it endorsed the conduct of the Governor of New Zealand it became a particeps criminis in the course which had been pursued by the Government towards the natives of that country. The subject was also one which affected the power of England and the honour of the Crown. His attention had been drawn to that country by the grant of £500,000; and he considered that especial care should be taken as to how the natives were treated. It had been suggested that the natives should send Members to the House; and he could assure the House that they had recently made extraordinary progress in many ways. They had schools and clergymen, whom they paid; and many of them were educated and able men. He did complain of the manner in which they had been treated, especially in regard to their rights to their land. As far as the rebellion was concerned, he wished it to be distinctly understood that he was in favour of putting 953 down rebellion and re-establishing Her Majesty's authority. But he wished the House of Commons to reflect that in endorsing the conduct of Governor Brown, they were taking upon themselves great responsibility, and rendering themselves liable for all that had been done.
§ Notice taken, that Forty Members were not present; House counted; and Forty Members not being present,
§ House adjourned at a quarter after Eight o'clock.