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Unity in the Industry

10th May 1935, Page 75
10th May 1935
Page 75
Page 75, 10th May 1935 — Unity in the Industry
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Which of the following most accurately describes the problem?

DIFFICULTIES have ansen in connection with the prciposed amalgamation of the Road Haulage Association, the Commercial Motor Users Association, and the Motor Hirers and Coach Services AsSociation. • The final proposals put forward by the three negotiating committees have been accepted by the R.H.A. and M.H.C.S.A., but the council of the C.M.U.A. has referred back certain points upon which it apparently considers further discussion is necessary: . The other two Assobiations had, however, already, become impatient at what they considered to be the unduly protracted negotiations and-had, on April 11, issued something in the nature of an ultimatum in a resolution, which we publish in full on page 412, and which was to the effect that the meeting of the negotiating committee at which the terms• had been agreed should be the last, so that if any of the national councils did not accept the decisions of these committees, then negotiations should be terminated.

At the same time, they are convinced that unity is essential to the successful future of the roadtransport industry, and they have, therefore, decided to go ahead with the formation of a national road-transport association which will open its ranks to 'all operathrs of passenger and -goods vehicles and will, of course, include ancillary users. This association will be free to enter into fresh negotiations with other bodies; and despite,the apparent definiteness of the resolution to which we have made reference, the door will remain open for further negcitiation with the C.M.U.A.

Whilst welcoming this step towards the formation of a more representative association, we cannot do otherwise than regret that the C.M.U.A. will not be included in it from the out-; set, for the interests of the two organizations will now become so closely related that competition for members and; perhaps, in other matters is most likely to ensue.

The C.M.U.A. is an old-established body with an excellent name and one which has done great work for the industry. We understand that its membership is• approximately 5,000, whilst the new association will have an initial membership of 10,000, most of which has been built up in the course of a little over four years.

There is some hope of future unity in the fact that many members of the C.M.U,A, are definitely in favour of the proposed amalgamation, realizing that the future strength of road transport lies in its ability to speak with one voice.