The Guardian (And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times.) MONDAY, MARCH 17th, 1924. THE RAILWAYS.

Hokitika Guardian, 17 March 1924, Page 2

The Guardian (And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times.) MONDAY, MARCH 17th, 1924. THE RAILWAYS.

In the thought for the times printed to-day there is an extract from Mr Massey's remarks at a recent gathering ill Wellington where he indicated in view of the improved earning power of the railways it should be possible before long to reduce railways and freights. Mr Massey is not Minister of Railways, but as Minister of Finance he naturally keeps watch and ward on all sources of income. That the railways are improving their financial position is satisfactory. The margin of profit is not large—less than four per cent. In view of the dearness of money at present, and the fact- that in the calculation of earning power no allowance is made for depreciation, the margin is low, although it is on the lines of pre-war conditions. New Zealanders are great travellers. They certainly patronise the railways freely. There are some lines which users are disposed to shirk. For instance we notice that the Hokitika-Greymouth line is not popular with visiting official magnates, and the Governor-General, Ministers. and Judges are disposed to avoid the railway and do the journey between the two centres hv motor car. This seems to suggest that something more than attention to fares and freights is necessary if the railway lines are to he popularised with the travelling public. That by the wav, for the moment. Tn regard to freights the schedule has been under review for some time, and it is well to revise it from period fo period. Circumstances alter and necessitate the revision. When the railway “cut” was enforced, motor opposition to the milways sprang up in all directions, and ever since there has been this active position Fq contend with. The opening of

the Midland railway is further occasion for a review of the railway freight charges so that the line will be in a position io compete with sea-borne traffic. The line is in daily operation, four or more goods trains running, and there is no reason why the number should not bo incieasod with the trade that is possible. The trade should be encouraged, and it should be catered for, and a- review of freight charges would lie helpful in that direction. Since the days of the war, cheap railway fares have been a missing quantity, except in connection with special school or trades excursions. On all latter occasions, tl»e trains are liberally patronised, indicating a ready willingness to travel as facilities are made attractive. There is no doubt if tile excursion fares are again brought into line with the pre-war times and week-end or seasonal excursions provided for. there would lie a great accession of traffic, and the Railways would benefit by tile greatly increased traffic. Mr Massey could with a good deal of confidence move in that direction, and the fact that at the same time the general trade of the Dominion would benefit by the additional number of people moving about, would be helpful indirectly to the public exchequer also. The Government can well afford to turn practical attention to the railways in regard to fares and freights, for under fair conditions the revenue under both headings can bo increased considerably. The Departments will be at tlic same time require to provide additional rolling stock and more powerful engines. On the local line the requirements are not met adequately at times and a measure of relief would be welcomed. I lie increasing passenger traffic "hicli would result from lower fares, would justify an improved arrangement lor tile return journey in the evening. By that means the passenger service could he improved, and not be the reproach it- is at present. It is at least hopeful that from Mr Massey’s remarks, the railway policy is to be reviewed and when being overhauled all aspects affecting trade and iuteteourse should be brought under notice. I'lio public will welcome a complete overhaul of the railway system.