N.Z. RAILWAYS

Hokitika Guardian, 5 March 1928, Page 4

N.Z. RAILWAYS

.MOTOR COMPETITION. By Telegraph—Press Assn., Copyright. DUNEDIN, March 4. ('oiiCnleiiee in tlie ultimate success of the New /--aland Railway Scheme and its effect on the future ol the country as a whole, was expressed by the Rt Hull -I. G. Coates. Prime Minister. and Minister of Railways, at a farewell social to Mr 11. I’. West, retiring District Traffic Atanager yesterday. In a spirited address. he said that the country would have to face a heavy espeiidittire tor the next two or three years to place I lit- railways on a t horoiiglmbly payable looting, tint when once they did In-runic firmly established, there would he steady progress, and prosperity without any retrogression. “It is possible,” lit- told his hearers, “that within the next five years the Department will he faced with the hardest light which has- yet fallen to its lot. Cut I am certain of its ultimate success, tor already it has achieved singular results. At present we are meeting with a keen competition which means a loss of t 1.000.000 a year. That is road compel it ion alone. We are not out for a ruiiiplete monopoly, hut we have to he wise for all possibilities, and he first on (lit* mark at all times to handle emmet it ion, and we cannot do lliis unless w-.’ have the equip-

To ; 1:i- visitor from overseas, u<- must give all tile attention that he would receive in other countries. AYe have got to live lip to what other people want, and if wo can complete the rail system conjointly with other transport systems with which we are linked up, a great avenue ol business and opportunity is open for us.” , Mr Coates then expressed his complete ('oiilidenre that in five or six years, if the present policy is proceded with, and the services asked for are completed. the Department will he placed in a position where it. tan compote successfully with motor traffic, give satisfaction to the Dominion as it whole, and develop the country on lines which make for prosperity and silt-cess, “ft- is quite possible,” lie added warningly, “that you will lose money for the first few years, but don’t, let people interfere! Complete your scheme first, although it may involve you in quite a number of millions, and indeed it will. The requirements are essential.”