THE GAS COMPANY.

Observer, Volume 7, Issue 233, 28 February 1885, Page 2

THE GAS COMPANY.

Monopolies are always dangerous. The Auckland Gas Company is a striking- example of the truth of the adage. One of the burning questions at a recent meeting of the CityCouncil was whether the price of gas should be reduced, and I think the subject has not been raised a moment too soon. Time was when the Auckland Gas Company was glad to consult the wishes of its consumers, but since it has waxed strong- it has not only kicked, but has become aggravatingly truculent, exacting, and over-reaching. I do no think the directors are so much to blame for this unsatisfactory and well-nigh intolerable condition of things as the understrappers and counter-jumpers, who have grown too big for their boots. The directors probably take matters as they are represented by the officers, and are content to abstain from meddling so long as they receive fat dividends. If they knew the methods by which some part of the means for these dividends is obtained they might— mind, I don't say would, because, as a rule, shareholders don't care to pry too closely into these matters — take a livelier intere^Sjfes the management of the Company's affairs. I have heard of cases which would make a Yankee book-agent's hair stand. Perhaps the introduction of the electric light would bring the Auckland Gas Company to reason. There is largely in use at Homo a sort of wall bracket, which contains an electric light, of course, superior to nmriy gas jets, as cheap aa candles, and renewable at any moment : without risk and with the. greatest ease. Why doePTiAt some one introduce it here ? r