HAMILTON 'BUS FARES.

Waikato Times, Volume 94, Issue 14776, 15 October 1921, Page 6

HAMILTON 'BUS FARES.

(To the Editor.)

Sir,—l notice Unit your correspondent does not give any indication of his company reducing f;ires, which, I repeat, arc unreasonably high for the service rendered. Personalities do not enter into this question at all, and the particular reason which may be advanced for control of fares is that 'bus companies earn their dividend on public property—roads. The ordinary business man has to buy land, erect buildings, and then put in his plant, machinery, etc. As good roads and highways are necessary to a good service, so a good service at a reasonable price is necessary to the development of the municipality served. The service we have had is too expensive and too rough for the times. Why should we pay 200 per cent more in Hamilton for a service of far shorter duration and in far more uncomfortable vehicles than may be obtaind in many places throughout Australasia? All the other matters mentioned in the Motor Co.'s letter arc incidental to this. On one ■point we seem in agreement—full 'buses pay better than half-full ones. The threepenny fare would fill them, and both public and Motor Company would he better off. I am pleased to note that we are promised improvements, but they are overdue now. It is to be hoped that, unless fares arc immediately adjusted, healthy competition will come along, and in the meantime the Borough Council might find that a little directing of public interest to the matter would be beneficial.—l am, etc., THREEPENCE. Hamilton. October 13, 1921.