MIDLAND RAILWAY.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 56, Issue 77, 13 January 1936, Page 5

MIDLAND RAILWAY.

COMPLETION URGED BY NELSON

(Per Press Association). NELSON, January 11. The Minister of Public- Works (Hon. 11 Semple) and the Minister of Mines (Hon. P. C. Webb), after their arrival at Nelson this morning, received deputations from persons interested in the Midland railway, the tobacco industry and transport. The municipal chambers were crowded to the doors for the civic reception. The Mayor (Mr George Page), Mr Atmore, M.P. and others heartily congratulated the visitors on their elevation to Cabinet rank and accorded them a hearty welcome to Nelson. In the course of his reply, Mr Semple said that they were making an investigation into every phase of economic life, but would not take risks or be stampeded into anything by anybody. Mr Webb spoke .on similar lines. A deputation from the Progress League urged on Mr Semple t]ie urgency of the completion of the Midland railway. It was pointed out that the filling of the gap of 42 miles, 14 oi which had been formed, would complete the railway from Nelson to Invercargill. Mr Semple made it clear that at the present the Cabinet had no power in the matter, only the Railway Board, but the people could rest assured that that would soon be altered anu the Cabinet take full responsibility. When that was done, the Cabinet would make a. full investigation, and iY they said “go” there would Do no stopping them.