PUTTING ON THE SCREW IN VICTORIA.

Temuka Leader, Issue 2333, 22 March 1892, Page 4

PUTTING ON THE SCREW IN VICTORIA.

Melbourne, March 20. Last night the Premier announced the policy of the Government, which included retrenchment. It was intended that 2J per cent, be deducted from all salaries ranging from £l5O to £300; 5 per cent, from £350 to £750; above the latter a reduction oil I per cent, to be made. Only the Governor and the Supreme Court Judges will be, exempt. It is hoped to save £130,000 per annum by this means. The Bailway Sendee is subject to the same reductions, and it is hoped that the effect will be a' saving in that department of £120,000, It is also intended to increase the revenue by £120,000. It was stated that the railways at present were losing at the rate of £400,000 per year and the Government were determined that such a state of things should not continue. They intended to abolish penny postage, and revert to a two-penny. The Premier indicated further taxation, but declined for the present to specify in what direction. The Governor, upon the advice of the Cabinet, has suspended the Bailway Commissioners on the ground of inefficiency and mismanagement. Messrs Francis, General Traffic Manager, Benwick, Bngineer-in-Ohief, and Keeble, recently assistant Traffic Manager, will be gazetted to the vacancies. The Bailway Commissioners leave office at noon to-morrow.