Right side of the law
Page 16
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
I WRITE regarding your Road Test Report No. 8/82 CM w/e March 27, 1982, relating to the Seddon Atkinson 401 Gardner.
In particular, I refer to the last paragraph of the centre column on page 27, in which you mention being stopped by "two conscientious police officers". The start of the next paragraph reads, "However, much more irksome". This comment seems to imply that being stopped was an irksome experience, bearing in mind, no doubt, the purpose of your journey. Your attitude, frankly surprises me, as apparently you understood the reason fo being stopped — using trade plates while laden.
Perhaps you are not aware that while the practice of carrying goods under trade plate restrictions is not common, neither is it exactly unheard of. Considering that the vehicle you were testing would have been subjected to a level of Vehicle Excise Duty i the order of £2,000, the financial benefits of this practice are obvious. Operato would agree that the consequent reduction in costs under these circumstances, would relieve a heavy monetary burden, thereby creating an element of unfair competition.
The fact that you were stopped, should not, therefore be described as 'irksome' but should be accepted as an illustration that sensible enforcement of Transport Regulations is to the ultimate advantage of all vehicle operators and leads to an environment where unfair illec practices can be justly banished.
I accept your point that it did result, in this test, in consumption figures that may not directly relate to previous tests. However, as being stopped is accepted by vehicle operators as necessary for enforcement of legislation, perhaps the figures obtained are nearer to a true consumption rate.
I do feel that if this letter were to be published, it would assist in the development of a better understanding between vehicle operators and the enforcement agencies, which may ultimately benefit all concerned.
H. W. F. DAVIDSON, AIRTE, AlnstTA Traffic patrol Officer of the Hampshire Constabulary.