Against Govt. Aid For Bridge Finance

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31135, 11 August 1966, Page 1

Against Govt. Aid For Bridge Finance

(New Zealand Press ‘ Association> AUCKLAND, August 10. Suggestions that a Labour government would transfer outstanding debts and future finance for the Auckland harbour bridge to the National Roads Board were attacked today by the Auckland branch of the Automobile Association.

Commenting on recent, statements by the DeputyLeader of the Opposition (Mr| Watt), the association’s coun-! cil said it deplored suggestions that the board should be directed in the allocation of its funds. “The council considers it fundamental to the proper functioning of the board that it be free from any political control or direction.” it said Hinting that the board would be unabie to bear the cost, the council said that it was starting this financial year, with less than £1.5 million. > Other proposals that the| bridge extensions should be' financed by existing petrol tax were questioned by the! council. ‘

■ "If the bridge extensions [are to be financed in this way. [ then it would seem clear that [either expenditure on roading elsewhere in New Zealand will have to be curtailed, or petrol tax will have to be in-] creased." said the council. “Neither of these would, ini our opinion, be acceptable to the majority of motorists.” The council added that Mr Watt’s statement that the present Government would contribute £2 million from the National Roads Fund was i “quite contrary to fact." This contribution was a [voluntary offer by the [National Roads Board arising [from a recommendation to [the board by the Director of 1 Roading.