D.—2

4

Very serious embarrassment and expense to the colony is liable to arise at this and other places from the present state of the law; neither the interests of the colony nor the lives and property of the public using the railways can be properly protected under the present conditions ; and it would be beneficial if the Bill agreed on by the Commissioners with the Crown Law Officers, at the request of the Government, in 1891, could be passed. The great improvements effected during late years in railway working and appliances in Europe and America have made it desirable in the interests of the colony that facilities should be afforded to the chief railway officers for personally studying them. During the past year the Commissioners made arrangements to give their Locomotive Superintendent and Chief Engineer the necessary opportunity, and they anticipate that the visit of these officers will be productive of much good in the colonial railway administration. The conduct and efficiency of the staff during the past year has been satisfactory. The demand for a railway employes insurance scheme is still urged by a large section of the staff, who are convinced of the necessity for it. The reports of the Chief Engineer for Working Railways and the Locomotive Superintendent are attached. We have the honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient servants, James McKerrow, J. P. Maxwell, W. M. Hannat, Railway Commissioners.