It is well known that nowhere on the Continent has the construction of competing lines been carried out to the same extent as in this country; it is one of the great permanent advantages possessed by Continental railways.[104] In France the companies have districts within which they exclusively afford railway accommodation. The Government recognise and sanction agreements between the companies for the prevention of undue competition where it inevitably arises, and for an apportionment of the receipts from competitive traffic. The following is an instance:—An agreement made 31st March, 1885, between the “Western of France Railway and the Orleans Railway Companies, provided that the receipts in respect of traffic carried between Paris and Angers, Nantes, Montoir, St. Nazaire, Redon and stations beyond, after deducting taxes (“Impôts”) and terminals should be apportioned thus:—
1. Traffic between Paris and Redon and stations beyond as far as Plaermel and Pontivy—
55 per cent. proportion to the Western Company.
45 ” ” ” Orleans Company.
2. Traffic carried between Paris and Angers, Nantes, Montoir, St. Nazaire, and branches leading out of the latter two stations, as well as Pont Chateau, by whatever route the traffic may have been carried—
49 per cent. proportion to the Western Company.
51 ” ” ” Orleans Company.
3. Traffic carried between Paris and stations beyond Angers or Martre d’Ecole on the States Railway—
230/304 to the Western Company.
74/304 ” Orleans ”