We therefore consider that the contribution towards the expenses should be made more general and that the onus should not fall too much on the shoulders of the shipping trade.
238 As however the shelter is in the interests of the welfare of the Colony, and the shipping trade generally has a certain interest at stake, we think that a temporary increase in the light dues would be agreed to by ship owners without opposition provided it were based on a somewhat modified arrangement as regards payment.
During 1907 the Reg Tonnage of shipping visiting this port is put down at roughly 10,300,000 tons, we therefore think that if the tonnage dues are increased by 1 cent per ton and the cost of the work spread over a longer term of years (than that suggested) it would be more equitable and the distribution of the payment would be much better divided.
We would point out that of late years the tonnage of steamers has materially increased, it however does not follow that more cargo is being brought in or taken away from the Colony. On the other hand the dues, owing to the size of the vessel, are considerably increased.
We have made no mention regarding the proposed site of the shelter as we consider that this is best left to practical local experts with whom you are no doubt consulting. We however venture to think that the cost of the works as mentioned