South African Service.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXVIII, Issue 3590, 26 October 1905, Page 3

South African Service.

In the House yesterday, the subject of the South African steamer service was raised by Mr Taylor, who, apropos of a paper re the volume ot trade tabled by Sir Joseph Ward, asked the intentions of the Government as to the continuation of the subsidy. Mr Herries objected to any renewal, as our subsidy only encouraged our rivals. Mr Massey said he prefered a direct service at half the present cost. Mr Seddon deprecated the discussion on the question without notice, pointing out that all particulars asked for would be given in due course. Mr T. McKenzie supported the present service as having kept up grain prices and given an outlet for meat. Sir Joseph Ward said (1) the present company intimates that it will not take on the service ; (2) it is impossible to get a refrigerating direct service with South Africa for £15,000 a year, perhaps not for £100,000 ; (3) the present contract was properly tendered for and accepted; (4) since the announcement that the Government is not renewing the contract, the Government had been inundated with remonstrances and petitions ; (5) the conditions attached in support of these remonstrances were impossible ; (6) tenders will be invited for a direct refrigerator service. For any other service no subsidy can be paid. He agreed that the service had benefited the agricultural community.