RAILWAYS HAVE A GREAT FUTURE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 19258, 20 December 1930, Page 11

RAILWAYS HAVE A GREAT FUTURE.

BIG SAVING EFFECTED IN THE PAST FOUR WEEKS.

“I am convinced that the department has a very great future,” declared the Minister of Railways, the lion W. A. Veitch, in an optimistic statement made yesterday. The railways, more than any other concern, he said, would reap the benefit of the prosperous period that was bound to follow the present depression. As a result of economies recommended by the Railways Commission, a saving in expenditure of £82,000 had been effected during the last four weeks. It was true that, owing to the general dullness of trade, the revenue had dropped by £60,000 in the same period. Receipts would, however, climb back to a normal figure, while the costs could be still further reduced. When the depression was over, wool at present held by the growers would be available for shipment and the department would reap the benefit. Mr Veitch said he was fortunate in the loyalty of his staff and the expert knowledge possessed by his officers. The task of effecting necessary economies had been made easy by the loyalty of the New Zealand people who always put the country’s welfare above their own interests. It was desired to do everything possible to help the farming community as, though some might be loath to admit it, the country depended on its primary producers. “It must be remembered, however, that all national losses come out of land values,” continued Mr Veitch, “so it is not to the farmers’ advantage when we maintain lines that are losing heavily. “Some people are sorry for me as being Minister of Railways in a difficult time, but I am considering my problems one by one and am confident of the department’s future.” CONSTRUCTION PROBLEMS. Per Press Association. WELLINGTON, December 19. Railway construction problems, it is understood, have been engaging the attention of Cabinet recently and it is stated that there is a decided possibility of the programme which has been laid down by tlje Government for the next few years being modified considerably. It is reported that the Government has been considering the cessation of activities on one or two lines under construction, but official confirmation is not available..