except for the purpose of bringing influence from without the Government circles into the field of Legislation, I see little necessity for change. The mercourse of non-official members of the Legislature is a good one, I would willingly pursue by the introduction of a greater number of the higher officials.
5. The Legislative Council, as at present instituted, is undoubtedly devoid of authority even to suggest any measure, however wholesome or desirable. As I found it instituted, it was no more acquainted with the concerns of the Colony than the rest of the inhabitants. The Blue Book had never been laid on the table. No subject whatever was discussed except on the presentation of the Governor - nothing whatever connected with the budget was ever submitted either for suggestion, deliberation, or decision. The Colonial Treasurer had been solely charged with the preparation of the Estimates, and, if approved by the Governor, they were referred without any advice or action of the Legislative Council. Whilst I have been Governor, I have laid the budget on the table, and invited observations thereon, but I have in no instance put any question of receipt or expenditure to the vote.