Chapter I: Preface

A part of the information upon which these observations are founded was obtained for my own guidance, in considering the complaints as to Railway rates and the comparisons between railways in the United Kingdom and abroad. At the suggestion of the representatives of some of the Companies the subject was followed up. These observations have expanded beyond my original intentions; but they have been prepared for a limited object; they do not purport to exhaust the subject. I have endeavoured to treat it fairly, and to pay due regard alike to the interests of the traders, the public, and the railway companies; interests which may, to a hasty observer, occasionally appear conflicting, but which, looked at reasonably, and in the light of full information, are seen to be identical.

Though solely responsible for the comments and conclusions, I am indebted for the information upon which they are based to many persons; among others, to several of the Presidents, General Managers, and others connected with the control of the railways in France, Belgium and Holland; to Sir Bernhard Samuelson, M.P. (who placed at my disposal the voluminous and useful information which he obtained as to the railways in Germany, Belgium and Holland); to some of the General Managers and other Officers of the companies in England, the United States, and Canada; and to many friends who have been kind enough to supply much information and give valuable assistance.

If the information thus collected helps to clear up some misconceptions, to prevent the adoption of theories as to the fixing of rates which would be most injurious to the trade of the country, and to bring about an equitable and satisfactory settlement of questions now so much discussed, my object will have been attained.

J. GRIERSON.

PADDINGTON,
_December 1st, 1886_.

CONTENTS.

SECTIONS PAGE

I. Introduction 1

II. The principle upon which Rates should be based 6

III. Cost of Service 8

IV. Equal Mileage Rates 13

V. Differential Rates 21

VI. Grouping, here and on the Continent 39

VII. Differential Rates on the Continent 45

VIII. The Interest of Consumers in Rates 62

IX. The Real Basis of Rates 68

X. New Classification 78

XI. Terminal Charges 93

XII. The Construction of Railways in England
and on the Continent 107

XIII. Working of English and Continental Railways--Comparative
facilities afforded by them 119

XIV. High Rates and their effect on trade 142

XV. Proposals for fixing rates by Railway
Commission.--Conciliation Courts 161

XVI. Railway Amalgamation 179

XVII. Railways and Canals 190

Conclusion 201

Appendix I. Comparison between English and Foreign Rates i

Appendix II. Comparison of Railway receipts from merchandise
and mineral traffic ix

Appendix III. Tariffs and Conditions for the conveyance of
merchandise Traffic in Holland xii
” ” Belgium xxvii
” ” Germany xliv
” ” France lv

Toll and maximum rate clauses in Railway Acts lxv