WELLINGTON.

Evening Star, Issue 3567, 29 July 1874, Page 3

WELLINGTON.

[By Telegraph.]

[Fromlour own Correspondent.) July 28. This morning a deputation of the < tago members waited on the Hon. Mr Richardson, and pressed on him the advisability of the General Government undertaking the opening up of the Tokomairiro aud Clutha Coalfields. Mr Gillies, who was spokesman,

said the Tokomairiro Company would undertake to supply the Government with coal at 5s per ton at the pit’s month, and that by running night trains Dunedin could be supplied very cheaply. Mr Rich"rdson’s reply was pon very encouraging. He pointed out the difficulty that most ff the land and the pits were in private hands. The only la-id

belonging to the Government was leased for fourteen years, thirteen of which had to run. If such a trade as Mr Gillies anticipated arose it would occasion extra roiling stock, as the ordinary traffics of the 4 main lines was more than enough for the present stock. His impression was that the Government was not at present warranted

in going to the outlay necessary for the additional rolling stock, but he promisul to obtain accurate reports on the subject and consider the matter. The Hon. Henry Bussell enters an action for libel against the ‘Guardian’ for i‘s correspondent’s letter in the ibsiie of the 20th. It is stated that the Otago University Council has offered a good price for its buildings. Two other deputations waited on Mr Richardson. One urged that flying surveys be made of the alternative lines of railway Lawrence to Clyde, and Palmerston to Clyde. Mr Richardson replied that nothing would be gained if they were made this year ; but the Government, though willing, bad not the available staff. The faetds, the Government have got their hands sufficiently full, and will not ask the House this year. The Southland members urged that the Winton line should be connected with the main line, there being a gap of about seventeen miles. The deputation pointed out that sleepers were procurable at the head of Lake Wakatip. Mr Richardson gave little encouragement, as the staff cannot overtake the work already in hand, but efforts are being made to increase the staff.