EXPRESS TRAINS

Southland Times, Issue 18938, 11 May 1923, Page 5

EXPRESS TRAINS

IMPROVED SERVICE SOUGHT “WORSE THAN TWENTY YEARS AGO” DISCUSSION BY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. Some discussion took place at the meeting of the Invercargill Chamber of Commerce yesterday afternoon on the question of the express train service between Invercargill and northern stations. When asked by the chairman (Mr Hoyles) if he could do anything to assist the Chamber in securing an improved midday service Mr Morgan (District Traffic Manager) who was present at the invitation of the Chamber said he did not think any good would accrue by doing so as the matter was out of his hands and was one solely for Head Office to consider. He would, however, be pleased to refer to Wellington any representations which the Chamber might wish to make in writing but he could not state definitely what attitude would be adopted as he was not. aware of what wai in the minds of the Head Office officials.

Mr Hoyles: “Personally I think we have a worst service now than what we had twenty years ago.” (Members, hear, hear). ‘T think we should make representation, to Wellington. What we object to mostly is the recent statement made by the Department that the running of the expresses daily meant a loss to the Department of £BOOO a month.”

Mr Vickery: “I think it is very doubtful if the Department is making such an economy as it represents it is by a reduced service.”

Mr Strang: “I would suggest that a conference be called of all the local bodies interested in the matter and that every ounce of pressure be brought to bear on the matter with a view to securing a better service. I would move a motion to that effect and see if something cannot be done.” Mr Reed seconded the motion which wai carried unanimously.