HARBOUR DUES

Evening Post, Volume CXL, Issue 148, 20 December 1945, Page 8

HARBOUR DUES

' 30 PER CENT. RISE

PRICE TRIBUNAL'S DECISION

A rise in the dues and charges of the Wellington Harbour Board that will produce an increase of 30 per cent, in its gross revenue has been approved by the Price Tribunal in a decision issued today. The board, in its reapplication to the Tribunal on December 10, asked for a 37 per cent, increase.

"This increase," states the Tribunal, "may be applied by way of a surcharge on dues and charges leviable by the board. The Tribunal will require the board to submit its annual accounts for the year ending September 30, 1946, when the matter will be reviewed in the light of circumstances then obtaining. It is hoped that by that time trading conditions will have become more stabilised, so that any adjustments required over a period of years in the board's dues and charges may be made."

The Tribunal said that in addition to the particulars placed before it by the board at the »first. hearing in July last, additional new factors were submitted. Data were supplied showing the actual revenue of a non-recurring nature received during 1942-45; leaselend had ceased; the board's wages bill would be increased by the Court order of November, 1945; and earnings of the floating dock showed a definite decline.

"In considering all the evidence now produced," it continues, "it is apparent to the Tribunal that the board would, unless given relief, be faced with a very substantial loss for the year ending September 30, 1946. This estimated loss is calculated as follows:—Loss for year ended 30/9/45, £143,541; plus increase in costs due to adjustment in award wages made in April, 1945 —increase for full year £38,000. As a six months' period at higher rates is included in loss above, the additional effect on next year's working would be £19.000; plus loss of revenue from the handling of American cargo, £20,000; plus effect of Court order (November), £3000; total, £185,541. "While at the time of the first application the Tribunal had grounds for considering that the applicant had the capacity to absorb the loss, temporary