SOUTH ISLAND MAIN TRUNK

Evening Star, Issue 14963, 24 August 1912, Page 8

SOUTH ISLAND MAIN TRUNK

ITS COMPLETION" I'RGKD. [Per Unht.p Pkkss Association.] WELLINGTON'. August 24. A large deputation, representing tlie railwav Icaguc-i and the various local bodies' between Blenheim and Christchurch, waited on the Prime Minister and the Minister of Public Works this morning. The other members of Parliament supporting the deputation included (Sir Joseph Ward and Messrs P.. M-Kenzie. Mac Donald. Lnurenson. Russell, and M'Callum. M.i'.s. Among the speakers were. Mr G. Forbes, M.P.. Mr MCalium. M.P. (Pdenheiml. Mr Mariner (C'hri.st-chui-chl. Mr Gotilter (Blenheim). Mr Davidson (Kaikoura). Mr Holland iChristelmivln. Mr lorry !Blenheim). Sir J. Ward, Mr P.. M'Kenzie. Mr Duncan iPicton). and Mr Russell. The main argurne?its were that previous Governments had assured them that the South Island Main Trunk Railway line would receive more attention when the North Island Main Trunk was completed; also that the Government would link up all the main routes of the Dominion. Hon. W. Fraser assured the deputation that their request would receive his most careful consideration, but he could not. make any promises. His views on the matter would be expressed in the Public Works Kstimates. Hon. W. V. Massey expressed appreciation of the moderate terms used by the deputation. Fie said railway construction depended on loan money. The last loan raised cost 5 per cent., and the. Government would be unwise to approach the London market for money at present. He knew the country surrounding tlie proposed line, and it was good country, and worthy of a railway. He thought the rerjnest for the completion of the railway in nine years was a moderate one. They did not yet know how much money would be available, but the deputation could depend on getting that ..consideration to which they were entitled.