SCRAPS FROM "FAIR PLAY"

Oxford Observer, Volume V, Issue V, 16 June 1894, Page 3

SCRAPS FROM "FAIR PLAY"

The list of birthday " honours " is out, and while New South Wales arid Victoria have been recognized, it is significant to notice that New Zealand has been given the go-by. Not that it matters two pins, but public curiosity has bsen agog as to whether the offer of the bauble would transform plain Dick Seddon into bir Richard Seddon. We should have been sorry had the temptation been put in the Premier's way. His acceptance of a Knighthood would have carried great joy into the camp of the Stoutites. * * * * # The Picturesque Atlas Co. are offering their properties and debts for between £50,000, and £60,000. Victoria owes the company £53,393, New South Wales £22,560, and New Zealand only £1253. New Zealand must' nave been well " worked." # # # # # The Railway Commissioners are making a desperate effort to cut down working expenses, with what success remains to be seen. The workshop employes throughout the colony have been put on short' time, old hands have been superannuated, and many able officials have been " shunted " altogether. The Railway Commissioners estimate a ( saving of £4000 a year. Having regard to the- sweeping character of the changes, amounting to a 'reorganisation of the system, we 'grave- ; jly doubt whether the saving of £4000 i a year, if effected, will be commensur-' ;atej with the sacrifice of efficiency. • £4000 a year is a mere flea-bite in the • expenditure of a gigantic undertaking i like the Government Railways.