D.—2

XX

The following table shows' particulars of the expenditure per train-mile :—

STORES. Mr. H. Baxter, Comptroller of|Stores, reports as follows : — The value of stores, plant, and material (purchased under the Railway vote) on hand*og the 31st March, 1915, at the various stores, depots, and sawmills amounted to £41.8,093 19s. 1 Id., asagajnst £450,207 3s. Id. on the 31st March, 1914. The value of stores on hand on account of additions to open lines amounted to £1.3,688 18s. 10d., asl|against £38,204 19s. Id. on the 31st March, 1914. The whole stock is in good order, has been carefully and systematically inspected, and is value for the amounts stated.

The conduct of the staff as a whole has been very satisfactory. I have, &c, E. H. Hiley, General Manager The Hon. the Minister of Railways.

[ ' " " ~'~ ! I " . _ _ . Cost, in Pence, per Train-mile. Year. Train-mileage. Engine-mileage, j Locomotive i Car and Wagon Branch. Branch. __L_ I I __1 i i 1914-15 ... ... 9,383,420 12,646,587 24-42 5-84 1913-14 ... ... 9,319,268 i 12,604,573 23-73 5-99 Total. 30-26 29-72 The increased expenditure is due to the extra cost of fuel, wages, and repairs.