Danger from Diesel Fumes
Page 40
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Exaggeration R.H.A. Chief THE extent of the danger and menace from diesel fumes has been grossly exaggerated, said Mr. J. B. Mitchell, national chairman of the Road Haulage Association, at the annual dinner of the Devon and Cornwall Area, held at Torquay last Friday. The reasons for the exaggeration can only be guessed, but it would be going too far in the opposite direction if they were to deny that the nuisance exists. Mr. Mitchell continued:—
" If I may put it this way—there is no black smoke without fire. You will note that I have referred to the problem as a 'nuisance,' because I believe that is the right word. I must emphasize that the black smoke is not a danger to health. This has been demonstrated by the Medical Research Council, to the satisfaction of the Government Departments concerned.
"This does not mean that we should be complacent or that we will slacken our determination to bring the nuisance to an end. The R.H.A. have been grappling with the problem for a long time. We are examining filters, additives, testers and other devices, many of them on the market, and it may well be that they can all play some part in mitigating the trouble.
"We are advising members on these matters and on proper methods of engine maintenance, although this last point is one on which they are pretty well informed in any case. Where a vehicle does emit smoke, the reason often is that the engine has not been looked after properly. This must happen only rarely with our members, if only because they know full well that an engine that does not work to full efficiency is a costly luxury.
"There is the old story of the preacher who was asked to give his considered opinion on sin. He replied that he was against it. In the same way we are against the emission of black smoke and would have no sympathy, even with a member. if he were found to be flagrantly guilty of this particular offence, "What we are firmly determined to do, however, is to resist any prosecution that we feel has been taken unreasonably."