The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veri as et Prevalebit THURSDAY, JUNE 21, 1883. A Direct Steam Service.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume IV, Issue 975, 21 June 1883, Page 2

The Ashburton Guardian. Magna Est Veri as et Prevalebit THURSDAY, JUNE 21, 1883. A Direct Steam Service.

When it became known that the application for tenders made by the Government in respect to a direct steam service between this colony and Great Britain had resulted in an absolute failure, the feeling aroused was rather one of disappointment than ot surprise. The subsidy that Parliament ultimately authorised was so much less than was originally proposed, and the conditions attaching to the proposals so stringent, that it is no matter for wonder that the shipping companies both at Home and in the colony refused to bind themselves. When they agreed to reduce the subsidy to -£20,000, the Government were probably aware that the offer would not be accepted, and certainly the amount did not warrant us in expecting more than a third or fourth rate service. During the discussion that took place on this subject last session, it was evident that a good many members thought that, however desirable the establishment of direct steam communication might be, the present position of the colony did not warrant support being given to the project. The Ministry, to some extent, doubtlessly shared this opinion, but we have lately had ample proof that they were mistaken. The New Zealand Shipping Company, with an enterprise worthy of all praise, determined td set aside the question of Government aid, ,and inaugurated a service of their own. As a result of this we have now in the waters of this colony one of the most magnificent vessels afloat, the lonic, which arrived at Wellington 43 days from Plymouth —a rate of speed that, marvellous as it would have been considered a few short years ago, is expected to be beaten on future voyages. We have therefore to congratulate ourselves upon having a direct steam service of the very highest class, vastly different from what we should have had if the proposals of the Government had been taken up, inasmuch as none of the better companies would have tendered. Whether the experiment will justify the action of the Directors remains to be seen, and much ot course will depend upon the support given to the service by colonial shippers, who must recognise the great advantages that will accrue to them by the quick transmission of their goods to the Home markets. As to the passenger traffic, it is questionable whether that will pay for some time to come, especially when the flood of immigration ceases to flow. The frozen meat trade, which is still only in its infancy, will necessarily form the chief support, and it is on that the Company will have principally to depend. Still it is doubtful if the service will be continued without some aid being given by the Government, but now we have experienced the advantages of a quick going service as compared with a slow one those who are in favor of the higher subsidy that was proposed last session have had their hands strengthened. The New Zealand Shipping Company, not only because of the pluck and energy they have shown, but because it is a colonial concern, have earned a right to the first consideration of Parliament in respect to a subsidy, and we hope that when the matter comes up for discussion that right will not be forgotten.