MONEY FOR ROADS.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLIX, Issue 250, 20 September 1929, Page 7

MONEY FOR ROADS.

PREMIER’S REPLY TO MOTORISTS

Per Press Association. WELLINGTON. Sept. 19. Plain speaking was indulged in by the Premier when replying to a deputation representing motor interests, which waited on him to-day to protest against the suggested proposal to withdraw the contribution of £200,000 from the funds of the Main Highways Board. Sir Joseph Ward said that there had never been any intention to deprive the board of funds and he complained of misleading statements which had been made regarding the Government’s intentions. “I am just as concerned for the welfare of the motor associations, municipalities and county councils as any other man in New Zealand, yet before we have been able to say what we are going to do, you come here and base your arguments on incorrect information. There has been no suggestion of taking £200,000 from the motorists,” he said. In spite of the deficit, he was making provision this year for £2,000,000 for the Main Highways Board, the funds of which showed a balance of £520,000 and with the £1,442,000 which would be available this year, it would have a total of nearly £2,000,000. It was obvious that there had been a misunderstanding of the position, otherwise the deputation would not have taken the trouble to come to see him. The Government liad no completed details regarding transport and he asked the motorists to' wait and see the proposals. The motorists would get the £200,000 and £35,000 as well, but whether they would get the £200,000 without interest was a matter on which a decision had not been reached.