Protection of Minor Ports

Manawatu Times, Volume LIV, Issue 6852, 6 March 1929, Page 6

Protection of Minor Ports

clear pronouncement by the Prime Minister of the Government’s opposition to the agitation in favour of centralisation of overseas shipping wall assist to remove misgivings aroused in every part of the Dominion where, at great expense, adequate provision has been made to accommodate vessels trading to British and foreign ports. The proposal, which if carried into effect would inevitably kill the trade of the smaller harbours emanated from the larger centres, mainly Wellington and Auckland where heavy expenditure has been incurred to provide for the expeditious handling of cargo and the argument advanced in its favour was that the reduced costs to shipping companies resulting from quick despatch would be passed on to producers in reduction of freights. Whether this advantage would materialise is an open question but it is certain that the cost of transporting produce by coastal steamers, rail and motor to the main ports, apart from the risk of deterioration by extra handling, would more than neutralise this problematical gain. Moreover, while the diversion of trade would be a good thing for the main centics it would have a blighting effect on the progress of prosperous towns such as Timaru, New Plymouth, Wanganui, Napier and Gisborne which at heavy outlay have been able to secure the benefit of direct outward shipment. In replying at Napier to a question by Mr. W. E. Barnard, M.P., in regard to the Government’s attitude, Sir Joseph Ward stated: “As a matter of policy I am satisfied centraliastion would be injurious to this country and I am convinced in adopting a policy in opposition to it, we will be supported by the House of Representatives. The harbours we have now we want to develop and make more useful in serving the country.” With such an unequivocal declaration all ground for alarm should be removed and expenditure on necessary improvements in order to provide for growing trade may be undertaken ir. the full confidence that nothing will he done to prejudice ihe interests of minor ports