THE DISTRICT RAILWAYS.

Manawatu Times, Volume X, Issue 1327, 22 October 1884, Page 2

THE DISTRICT RAILWAYS.

Per Press Association.

Wellington, October 21.

In the House this afternoon the Premier on behalf of Sir Julias Yogel gave notice to move next Friday, That the House go into Committee to consider the following resolution: — That the difficulties surrounding the railways constructed under the District Railways Act, and the hardship! to which the ratepayers are subjected m connection m connection therewith, are such that this House considers the Government: should seize a favorable opportunity to acquire tbe said lines, the cost not to exceed the value ascertained by a court of inquiry; presided over by a Judge of the Supreme Court, based an the aptual coat at which at the time of construction tbe railways oould have been con™ structed, less depreciation and deterioration since from a reduction m tb« martlet value and wear and tear, plus any amounts the company owners of the said railways have been or may be authorised to levy on the ratepayers up to 31at March last, it being made a condition th it all proceedings against rate* payers shall be stopped, and all amounts secured from ratepayers be returned to them, the Government to pay one third m cash for the said railways, "the balance to bear 4 per cent interest, and to be paid m four equal annual instalments.' The Government next session to introduce a bill to make the ratepayers liable for one half of any amount short of 4 per cent which the railways yield- atter paying working expenses, plus the cost of raising tbe rates, .