THE RAILWAY GAP.

Patea Mail, Volume VIII, Issue 1016, 2 April 1883, Page 2

THE RAILWAY GAP.

The Wellington Chamber of Commerce has done us a good turn in bringing forward at their annual meeting, the subject of the construction of the length of railway between Hawera and Manutahi. As stated in the report of the Chamber there can be no question that there has been considerable delay in prosecuting the work although the money was passed in the estimates , last session; Some difference of opinion appears to exist among members of the Chamber as to the effect that the “fearful gap” has had upon the trade of Wellington. Some contend that trade to a large extent has been diverted to Auckland, and others that the reverse is the case and that Wellington has extended her commerce enormously during the past few years, the Waimate Plains presumably being included in the extension. We incline to the opinion that Auckland has had much the best of the trade lately and the .want of railway connection with Hawera and the district beyond must be held responsible for the diversion. Wo in Patea have felt the want of the line far more severely than anybody else, yet wo sit quietly and wait, till a body like the Wellington Chamber of Commerce brings the subject forward. The least we can do now is to second their efforts. Communication be opened with Hawera, with a view to united action, in the shape of public meetings in both districts. The interests are identical, and both Counties should lift up their voices and urge the completion of the line without further delay. We make the Mayor a present of the suggestion, and hope that some action will be taken. If the Government see that we are indifferent to the work, they will take full advantage of our silence, and use the money for our lino in quieting the tongues of those who are more clamorous in their demands.