AUCKLAND TRAM FARES

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23491, 31 October 1939, Page 9

AUCKLAND TRAM FARES

CONCESSION QUESTION * EXTENSION IMPRACTICABLE The impracticability of any scheme for the introduction of further concessions in tram fares in the board's present circumstances and in view of the general financial position was referred to by the chairman, Mr. W. H. Nagle, at a meeting of the Auckland Transport Board yesterday. Concessions had been abolished previously owing to increased costs, Mr. Nagle said. To-dav theso costs were greater than ever, and the possibility of a further increase seemed apparent. The chairman said they were facing up to increased capital* charges this year of £20,000, and approximately £250.000 had to be found to pay loans falling due in London in eight months. If concession, cards on the previous basis were now introduced the estimated decrease on the present revenue would amount to £17,800 a year, stated a report presented by the manager and engineer, Mr. A. E. Ford. With the cost of servicing added, the total would be £ISOO higher. Tf the board decided to grant apprentices, and other young people a 20 per cent reduction on the present workers' weekly tickets, as had been suggested, the decrease would be £25,267. The total decrease would therefore be £J<t.5G7 a year. This figure made no allowance. for the slight increase in passengers which might be expected. The report was adopted.