HEAVY TRAFFIC

Southland Times, Issue 20788, 31 May 1929, Page 8

HEAVY TRAFFIC

LICENSE FEES

REDUCTION STRENUOUSLY OPPOSED “RENTAL NOT UNREASONABLE” (Per United Press Association.) Napier, May 30. The agitation of heavy traffic interests in requesting the Government to reduce license fees is being strenuously dppoeed by motorists in the north, according to Mr R. E. Champtaloup, touring manager of the Auckland Automobile Association at present in Napier. Mr. Champtaloup states that if the Carriers’ Federation is successful, approximately £250,000 in taxation will be shifted to motor car owners. Figures indicating that lorries pay heavy traffic fees of £75 are quoted but these apply to approximately only 350 vehicles in the Dominion. When it is considered there arc roughly 25,000 heavy vehicles licensed and the fees collected under £25,000 (an average of £lO per vehicle), it will be realized that heavy traffic is not paying a very unreasonable rental for road usage. It is apparent that if heavy traffic fees are abolished, either the construction of roads must be delayed and maintenance reduced, or the petrol tax must be increased. Engineers state definitely that the heavy vehicle is doing more damage than it is paying for. Moreover, the Highways Board is compelled to construct roads to carry heavy traffic and of heavier construction than is necessary for motor cars. Consequently, it is contended, the increased cost ehould be borne by the vehicles for which the extra expenditure is necessary. Mr. Champtaloup states that it is regrettable one section of the road users should seek to obtain an advantage over any other. Mr. Champtalouv who is discussing the subject with other Automobile Associations on behalf of the Auckland Association, this evening met the Hawkes Bay Automobile Association and put forward the Auckland proposal that a monster petition be prepared for presentation to Parliament. Local motorists unanimously supported the suggestion.