§ 56. Mr. CAUTLEYasked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the possibility of the introduction this Session of legislation empowering the Road Board to borrow the money required for the construction of new roads and confining the application of the present funds, which consist of the taxes levied on the users of motor vehicles, solely to the 37 maintenance and improvement of existing roads, both main and rural, and possibly the necesary sinking funds on the loans, and thus appreciably relieve the high local rates that have to be levied for the roads?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI have been asked to reply. This possibility has been carefully considered, but I do not think it desirable in present circumstances to borrow money for this purpose.
§ Mr. CAUTLEYIs it possible to justify capital expenditure out of yearly taxes?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI think so. If you consider the position of the Road Fund at the present moment, I am afraid there is no alternative.
§ Mr. CAUTLEYWhy should present users pay for new roads?