THIS HARBOUR BOARD BILL.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXX, Issue 412, 18 July 1908, Page 2

THIS HARBOUR BOARD BILL.

Mr John Stuvisns, M.P. has taken the first opportunity from the floor of the House to urge upon the Government the necessity for providing facilities for the proper control of our much neglected port. He spoke with no uncertain voice on the subject during the course of his remarks on the Financial Statement. He enlightened members as to the state of affairs in connection with the local port and repeated the arguments used when the deputations waited upon tue Ministers for Marine and Railways and the Prime Minister. He hoped the Government would yet see its way to give the wharf dues to the Board if constituted failing which he suggested the alternative of disposing of the wharf to the Board, on terms similar to what obtained under the Doans to Docal Bodies Act. The Harbour Board Bill will be introduced by Mr Stevens at an early date and if it does not reach the objective aimed at by its promoters after the “ cooking ” process then it will not be the fault of our member. Mr Stevens has devoted considerable time and study to the Foxton Harbour Board Bill and recognises to the full what a properly controlled port means to the Manawatu and surrounding districts, and he will leave no stone unturned in his endeavour to see that justice is done to the Mauawatu port.

WK finally intimate 10 those responsible for the carrying out of local social functions, that if they desire such functions to be reported in future, they must extend the usual press courtesy. This is the second occasion upon which we have had to refer to this matter, and it will be the last. Ignorance of what is due to the press or oversights, cannot in future be pleaded in extenuation. Some newspaper representatives may be prepared to get down on their waistcoat buttons, in order to secure a “ press pass.” For all such crawlsome creatures who thus prostitute their high calling, we have the greatest contempt. We recognise that it is our duty to record current events, and are prepared to sacrifice much time to that end, but there is also a principle involved, which function promoters must likewise remember. Further, we print to live, and do not follow this calling as a mere pastime.