RAILWAY IMPROVEMENTS

Otago Witness, Issue 3556, 9 May 1922, Page 49

RAILWAY IMPROVEMENTS

MATTER UNDER CONSIDERATION. WELLINGTON, May 4. When seen to-day with regard to the promised improvements in connection with the New Zealand railways, the Prime Minister stated that since his return to Wellington he had been in daily consultation with his colleague, the Hon. D. 11. Guthrie, ActingMinister of Railways, and various suggested methods had been fully discussed. Mr (Guthrie was constantly going into the different aspects with the general manager, and he (Mr Massey) felt sure that by putting into effect the proposals at present in view, the details of which were now being carefully weighed, a material improvement would result, and the management. would have much better facilities for dealing expeditiously and satisfactorily with the important problems which arise from time to time in connection with the running of the railways. Mr Massey stated that he was not yet in a position to announce what form the improvements would take, but he made it quite clear that there was no truth whatever in statements that were being circulated suggesting that a bitch had occurred in connection with the negotiations in progress. On the other hand, he had every reason to believe that the ideas, when thoroughly matured, would be in the best interests of the users of the railways, the Government, and the departmental officers concerned. “Taking into consideration t.he far-reaching effect of any change in methods, and the numerous important. aspects that have to be carefully weighed,” said Mr Massey, “I anticipate that it will be possible to arrive at a definite decision as to which is the' best course to take in the very near future.”

A magnificent stag, bearing probably the best head ever obtained in the Tapanui district, was shot by Mr Thomas Wilson, of Kaitangata, last week. The stag had had had quite a provincial reputation for about four years in Black Gully bush, and many keen sportsmen had sought the honour of securing the coveted trophy, but although the animal was frequently sighted., it remained for Mr Thomas Wilson to stalk him down. The head is a 26pointer, with a spread of 34 inches, and has been generally admired by all stalkers.