MAIN HIGHWAYS.

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXX, Issue 5392, 25 February 1929, Page 2

MAIN HIGHWAYS.

NATIONALISATION MOOTED. FARMERS’ UNION VIEWS. A motion, moved by Mr R. H. Feisst, “That the automobile associations were having too much influence on the Main Highways Board; ta the detriment of the ratepayers,” gave rise to an animated debate ait. a meeting of the; Auckland executive of the Farmers’ Union.

Supporting the motion, Mr J. B. Jordan offered to prove that Mr A- Ejull, acting-chairman of the Highways Board, had said that the board’s decision concerning a certain route in the Auckland district had been based on the recommendations of the Auckland Automobile Association.

“It. is a case of pull devil .pull baker,” sa,id Mr C. C. Munto. “Everyone is trying to get the most out of the Main Highways Board. You cannot Jook on the motorist as an enemy.” He maintained that, the motorist paid his share of rbad; upkeep through the tyre and benzine taxes, and wis entitled to have a say on the board.

Mr W. Lee 'Martin,, -M.P. : The farmers still pay the greater part of the cost of roads, through the heavy loans they have to raise. If the position is analysed it will be found that the ratepayers are still paying more than their share. The only rejnedy is the nationalisation of the main highways, and now is our time to ask for it. (Applause.)

Ou the moton of Mr R. D. Duxfield it. was decided t« refer the matter to the next meeting. Meanwhile, statistics that will give a clearqv view of the position will be gathered; - Mr Feisst suggested another element of influence in the Public Works Department. It was agreed that a rqmil asking whether the Public 'Works Department carried out. the plans of the Main Highways Board to ‘ the best economical advantage should be fcrw’arded to the Dominion Executive.