Service Aspects of the New Zealand Railways.

Evidence is not lacking of the need for fuller understanding by the public regarding the service which the railways render them, both as a seller of transportation, and as a buyer of New Zealand commodities. The test of figures is always enlightening, and on this point it is interesting to record that over £6,25,000 was the sum spent by the Railways Department last year on the wages of employees and on the purchase of commodities in New Zealand. The wages account for the year was £4,884,136, and the amount spent on New Zealand produce and manufactures was £1,345,360.

These figures go to prove definitely that every section of the community in New Zealand is interested in the national transport business. Some review of the matter, as it affects the two principal sections—those engaged in primary production and those employed in the business of secondary industry—is therefore appropriate.