By Isle of Wight Observer
The cost of living crisis is clearly nothing new. The Isle of Wight Observer published on 10th August, 1901 lists a series of unwelcome ‘taxes’ imposed on Islanders and visitors. The editor of the IW Observer also bridled at criticism in the Municipal Journal, which was based on incorrect information. It seems Island councils have made mistakes for many years!
“COMPANY RIDDEN RYDE.” – Such is the title of an article which appeared in the Municipal Journal last week. It is very scathing. We are told that “people are taxed to the extent of 3d for the privilege of landing at Ryde.” Local people are under the impression that the toll is 2d, but that is a detail. Next we are told the Ryde Town Council ought to do away with one of the companies by purchasing both the piers, improve the quay, and give the town a good sea front and increased facilities for bathing. The island railways do not escape, but are accused of charging in some cases a fare of 1s. per mile! Next we are told that the Gas Company controls the Town Council. “Before the last election the Council decided to start a municipal scheme. At the election, however, the gas company’s interests triumphed, and immediately afterwards the Order was given to the company which supplies the neighbouring town of Sandown, but on such impossible terms that it will prevent the electric light, if it is ever started, competing effectually with the gas company. Ryde will be very severely punished for its benighted policy and lack of municipal enterprise. Finally the I.W. Observer is found fault with because we ventured to think if motor busses are allowed they should be “subject to the same regulations and pay the same fee for licenses as ordinary busses.” Really if the I.W. Observer receives the distinguished honour of being quoted in the Municipal Journal it would be as well for the quotation to be correct. It makes us doubtful of the correctness of the other assertions.