CARS FOR ALL

Gisborne Times, Volume LXXXVI, Issue 13092, 13 February 1937, Page 5

CARS FOR ALL

MINISTER’S AMBITION. HIGHWAYS TO BE IMPROVED. NO DEATH TRAPS. THREE DIVISIONS OF TRAFFIC CONTROL. (Press Association) INVERCARGILL, Feb. 12. Tho whole question of motor taxation is being reviewed, Avith a view to simplifying tho present complicated system, said the Hon. R. Semple, Minister of Transport, in an interview on his arrival in Invercargill this afternoon.

Tho roads are being made much safer, with the object of encouraging people to use them,” said the Minister, and of preserving human life. A simple national system of control is being adopted in place of the former complicated system of local restrictions, under which, neither the motorist nor anyono else, kneAv his responsibilities. Far-reaching proposals are being carried out for improving, Avidcning and straightening the highways of the Dominion. All these proposals aro aimed at promoting the development of all forms of motor transport. “One of tho main points of the Government’s policy,” continued Mr. Semple, “is to promote the best roads possible for motoring, and to ensure that theso roads aro not death traps. By this policy it is hoped that the benefits of science in the foim of the modern car, may be enjoyed by all citizens in Jjhis country. Personally, I would liko to see a motor car for every family. “As I visualise the position at present, it seems desirable that there should bo three main divisions of traffic control,” continued Mr. Semple. “These should be: (1) Four main metropolitan districts, where traffic inspectors should nc under one control in each district. Theso districts, will comprise the four main cities and surrounding centres, which for the purposes of motor traffic control may bd regarded as . ) single units ; (21) Boroughs Avith populations of 6000 and over, which will control their oaati traffic;

(3) Smaller toAvns and rural areas, which will he under a. national system of control.”