RAILWAY BOARD’S REPORT.

Taranaki Daily News, 12 September 1935, Page 4

RAILWAY BOARD’S REPORT.

The annual report of the Railways Board, while it contains chiefly amplifications of statements already published, is on the whole an optimistic review of the transactions for the 1934-35 financial year. It is true that the increase in expenditure showed a slightly higher percentage than that of the increased earnings, but wage cut restorations and other staff privileges accounted for some of the increase in expenditure. An increase of £28,641 in passenger revenue is an indication that the public is returning to railway transport, at least for the longer journeys, and it is satsifactory to note that the board recognises that low fares and improved accommodation are the factors most likely to stimulate passenger traffic. The growth of excursion traffic gives encouragement for further efforts in this direction, and there seems reason to believe the board is fully alive to the possibilities of fostering this class of business. Reference is made to the competition between road and railwayborne traffic, and the board makes a plea for further regulation to avoid uneconomic competition. By the institution of rail-car Services such as are to be established in the Taranaki and Wairarapa districts there will be an added inducement to use the railways, and it is possible that such efforts will counteract competition more effectively than resort to further regulation, of which the public is getting a little weary. Although the financial position has improved the railways are by no means a paying concern. Last year rather less than half the interest due was earned, and the taxpayers had to find £1,243,395. The burden is large enough, but it might easily have been larger. Under political control the indications were that a larger deficit was certain. The experience is not confined to railways in New Zealand. Other countries are finding the way back to railway solvency is by keeping equipment up- to date and giving the public the best available services at the lowest price. The board can be congratulated upon having controlled its 16,000 employees without friction. It can be congratulated still more on the fact that it has a loyal, keen and efficient staff, willing to do all in its power to serve the public and thus increase the earnings of the railways.