THE RAILWAYS

Hokitika Guardian, 7 May 1926, Page 4

THE RAILWAYS

MAKING THE SEKVICE PAY. WELLINGTON, Afav 5. Has the Lime arrived when the Hailway Department would be justified in undertaking road transport in localities where it is likely to be a sound economic proposition ? This question was the subject ' of serious consideration at tt conference hold in Wellington of representatives of the Department’s commercial branch, and tin? members present unanimously agreed that the time was opportune for such it departure. The conference was presided over by Mr A. W. .Mount, and the Prime ALinisier, who was in attendance in bis capacity ns Minister of Endways, opened the proceedings, lie expressed pleasure at the results of the efforts of the commercial branch, and urged the members to explore every possible avenue of new business, ami to see that everything possible was done in the way ol giving good service to the public.

The conference discussed all channels in regard to special excursions to meet the public requirements, and in the direction of stimulating new business, and it was decided to reintroduce excursions, which had proved successful. A now idea for giving farmers and ollters facilities for an exchange of visits between their respective districts, as at show limes, is to be tried out , and it was' decided to continue the practice el representatives of the commercial branch tittending the various shows, as deeidoly beneficial results laid been obtained by the personal contact secured in that direction. The introduction of “rod cap” porters was discussed, and the experiments which have been carried <mt at A\ elliiigton and Auckland were favourably reported upon, ft was decided to 10coiTimeiid an extension of tile system. Suggestions were advanced in regard to the use of rail motors, and proposals were made for their employment in run junction with steam trains tint! load motors. Tt was reported that the Department had now linked up with the carriers at practically every station in New Zealand where it was odvisaule and possible to do so. and that it was now in a position to quote cartage rates at most stations.

The effect of commercialising the Department was discussed, and it was leperted that the staff had readily lespiinded, and that the co-operation of all branches of tile service had accompanied the efforts to improve matters. Not only those actually coming in contact with the public in connection with the transit of passengers and goods bad worked as business-getters, but the men on the track, locomotive men and others had also done tt great deal to foster good relationship between the Department and the public.