The Manawatu Herald. Saturday, May 15, 1909. DOG IN THE MANGER.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXI, Issue 458, 15 May 1909, Page 2

The Manawatu Herald. Saturday, May 15, 1909. DOG IN THE MANGER.

A conference of Chambers of Commerce, representing Wairarapa, Hawke’s Bay and Palmerston, was held at Palmerston on Tuesday last, for the purpose of discussing improved railway facilities between the districts mentioned. Lower Wairarapa, south of Master ton, is very badly served in respect to an early morning service which would enable the travelling public to “ catch ” the north express without having to spend a night in either Masteilon or Welliugton. It is desired that the starling point of the early morning train should be Featherston instead of Mastertou. We believe the increased traffic, both passenger and goods, would more than justify the Minister in. sanctioning an extension of the service in the direction asked, for. Anyhow, why not give it a trial ? The above subject was the primary object of the Conference, but a side issue, cunningly engineered, in reference to the important straightening of the Maiu Trunk line between Marton and Levin, was introduced, and it was decided, on the motion of Mr Williams, seconded by Mr Fairbrother, “That in the opinion of this conference, the proposed Levin - Marton railway is not necessary nor in the interests of the Dominion.” It'will be noticed that the resolution is the opinion of those who attended the conference, and we ask what is their opinion worth ? What do the proposer and seconder know of the subject, apart from the “ facts” (?) glibly poured into their ears by such parochialists as the members of the Palmerston and

Feilding Chambers. Mr Nash admitted that so far as Palmerston North was concerned they were of course, unanimously opposed to it. Quite so, but on what grounds ? We challenge Mr Nash to prove his remarks (i) that “ most people affected by the proposed line were fairly well satisfied(2) That “ Foxtbn has good tram and train accommodation.” The latter statement is, of course, irrevelant, but we should be happy to publish proof on the subject from our esteemed friend. Our impression is that the Foxton service is decidedly inconvenient, and strong representation will shortly be made to have an improved timetable adopted. The question of straightening the Main Trunk line between Devin and Martpn, when considered in all its bearings, must appeal to everyone as a matter of national importance, and the objections raised at Palmerston are distinctly parochial and imaginary.