Islands Steamers’

Accommodation

Letter to the Editor.

I HAVE been asked by a number of mining men here to enter a strong protest against the conditions of passage on the B.P. line of steamers to this Territory.

It is almost impossible for a mining man to obtain decent accommodation on these boats. If one books in Melbourne he is invariably told “only shake-downs available,” and relegated to the steerage or “Chinatown,” as it is termed by the old hands. Nevertheless, full first-class fares are charged and it is only if a friendly passenger “in the know” gives you a tip that you are entitled to a 10 per cent. rebate on application to the purser that you realise you have been “stung.”

The steerage cabins graced by the title “staterooms” are a disgrace to the owners. They consist of four berths and little else. Outside the doors is a welter

of junk thrown higgledy-piggledy all over the deck. During rough and wet weather passengers have to get drenched through in order to reach the bath or dining rooms. Yet no hesitation is made about placing ladies in these cabins.

Having applied in Melbourne for deck cabins for four persons three weeks be fore the boat sailed from Sydney, and being offered “Chinatown” in a take-it or-leave-it attitude, I made close enquiry on my arrival in Sydney as to the reason.

I was told by an official of B.P.’s that the New Guinea Administration and Levers, Ltd., have the first call upon the best cabins in the ship and must receive preference over ordinary passengers.

This toadying to the authorities is to be deprecated, and in any case isn’t the private individual’s money as good as that of an Administrative official? Also, a 25 per cent, reduction in fares is allowed to the privileged persons.

Of course, the B.P. line is a monopoly and those who, of necessity, have to visit the Islands have unfortunately no choice but to travel on the B.P. boats. Never theless, the mining interests of the Ter ritory have kept both B.P.’s and the Administration in affluence during the past few years and now, with their womenfolk and children constantly trav elling up and down, they believe it time to voice a protest. Children are badly catered for and it is absolute hell for women with babies in arms.

There is no desire to see an Australian company lose business, but if a radical improvement is not made there is no doubt that a Japanese passenger line will be invited to call at Salamaua and Port Moresby.

A friend of mine was quoted £20 fare from Sydney to Salamaua, in the Nep tun, a few weeks ago, when B.P. were first thinking of taking over the steamer.

Recently he decided to travel by the steamer and went to B.P.’s offices to book —only to be informed that the fare is now £24. Can you wonder that this end of the Territory is seething with dis content?

I am, etc.,

Wau, T.N.G.

“Miner.”

14/3/35.