THE RAILWAY BOARD.

Taranaki Daily News, 10 June 1931, Page 4

THE RAILWAY BOARD.

Two important characteristics may be noted in regard to the newly appointed railways directorate. The first is that political considerations do not appear to have influenced the Ministry’s choice. The second is that so far from the appointment of directors being a reflection upon the general manager (Mr. 11. H. Sterling) he is himself to become chairman of the board in about three months’ time. Sir Janies Gunson, and Messrs. Reese and Reid may be said to represent the commercial communities in the provinces of Auckland, Canterbury and Otago, and Mr. E. Newman knows very thoroughly the problems that affect the farmer and pastoralist. Mr. Esson may bo said to represent finance on the now board, as well as being the Wellington representative. Apparently the new arrangement made with Mr. Sterling is likely to relieve the Dominion of some of its liability to him in the shape of salary and superannuation in a satisfactory manner, and as chairman of the non-poli-tical board of control he will have the opportunity of rendering distinguished service to the country—it is perhaps too much to hope that he or the board will ever be- able to bring the railways back to something approaching a payable investment for the country. They are too over-capitalised for that. For its disregard of political exigencies the Government is to be commended. Whether its choice of personnel is wise will remain to be seen. The new directorate has very wide powers, if it cares to exercise them, and it goes without saying that its responsibilities are commensurate with its powers. It will commence operations with the goodwill of the whole Dominion behind it, and with the loyal support of the railway service also assured. It may find that very unpleasant duties lie ahead, but provided it remembers that its duty to the country as a whole comes before everything else the board may be certain of the support of the community it has been appointed to serve.