NOT DECIDED

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLIX, Issue 111, 10 April 1929, Page 8

NOT DECIDED

THE DEVIATION WORK. STATEMENT BY PREMIER. NO DEPUTATIONS RECEIVED. “We have come here to examine the deviation ourselves, and our decisions in this important matter will not be affected in the slightest way by whatever influence is brought forward. We have come to no decision yet, but when we return the matter will be considered by Cabinet, and then we will tell the whole world.” This was tho statement made in an emphatic manner by the Prime Minister (Sir Joseph Ward) when approached by the Mayor on the arrival this afternoon of the Ministerial party to inspect the railway deviation at Palmerston North. “We have come here as the Government to see the work as it has been represented to us,” stated Sir Joseph, “and our mission is a special one. It is strictly an official visit, and not a general investigation.” The Prime Minister was resolute in his decision to receive no deputations whatever, and stated that no opportunity would be afforded during the visit for representations to bo made. Ho declined at the outset to hear any statements on the matter. There was a brief but sharp passage between Sir Joseph Ward and Cr. J. Hodgens when the latter sought to introduce the matter of receiving a deputation, and pointed out the importance of the question. The Prime Minister reiterated his intention not to hear any deputations. “What about the unemployed?” asked Cr. Hodgens. “We will look after them, not you, retorted the Premier. “I hope you will,” said Cr. Hodgens as he retired. There was a large and interested crowd at the station, tho arrival of such a large official party attracting considerable attention. The Ministerial party, accompanied by General Manager of Railways (Mr H. H. Sterling), the Mayor (Mr A. J. Graham), Mr J. A. Nash. M.P., and Mr M. H. Oram (president of the Chamber of Commerce) left immediately on the tour of inspection, and proceeded to the northern end of the deviation. After a consultation, they returned to the Milson Line Bridge, where an explanation was made of the work in progress. After that, they were conveyed over the deviation to Longburn, and finished the circuit by returning up the main line to Palmerston North. Arrangements were made for tlieir departure again oil the New Plymouth express for Wellington. An official intimation of Cabinet s decision is likely to be made shortly.