Conference of Motorists.

Hokitika Guardian, 12 April 1921, Page 3

Conference of Motorists.

NATIONAL QUESTIONS CONSIDERED. WELLINGTON, April 8. A conference is being held to-day between representatives of the New Zealand Automobile Union and the South Island Motor Union, with a view to arriving at a mutual understanding as to the best means of dealing with matters of national importance to motorists. The conference agreed to a general resolution regarding the policy in approaching the Government and local bodies that each body should consult with the other before placing its views before the Government, and that, whenever possible, LI days’ notice should be given to enable an exchange of views to Ik> made. It was decided that the Government should he approached for an assurance that both bodies should he heard on any deputation, and that the same procedure should be followed in approaching local bodies on matters which arc, or are likely to be, of national importance. It was generally agreed that the number of counties was excessive, and should be reduced. It was decided to reaffirm the principle of taxation on motor tyres, without exception. The establishment of a National Road Board of a non-political and independent character was suggested, funds to be furnished by taxation as at present of road users, and certain increased subsidies by the Government, the Board to have general jurisdiction over roads. This Board would generally supervise the work of road construction and maintenance, and would consist of a limited number of persons, including two thoroughly capable engineers. In regard to taxation, the policy was that it”should be based on usage, and not on possession of a vehicle. Such taxation so far had been suggested on tyres, and about 15 per cent ad valorem was proposed. The principle had been adopted, and affirmed by a previou* conference.

Regarding Die right of the road, the matter had been discussed by the Otago Motor Club. It was generally agreed that there should he n definite rule of the road, so that in the case ol two cars oil intersecting roads, one or other should have the right of the road. mail coming in from the light shoulu have the right of the road. Strangers in n district would not know which were main and which were subsidiary roads, but such a rule would meet the case. . The conference reaffirmed its policy in regard to the registration of vehicles. It was agreed that there should not only lie annual registration, but that a permanent certificate of legistration should be issued, to be annually renewed; that distinctive marks should be carried by vehicles corresponding to indications in the certificate. For any breach the penalties should be severe. It should lie compulsory for any sale to be notified and registered within a given time from the sale, under a penalty. Marks of identification should he compulsory.