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17th February 1994
Page 26
Page 26, 17th February 1994 — SA alternatives
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Which of the following most accurately describes the problem?

John Kendall's interesting road test of a Scania/Farid 6 x 2 refuse collection vehicle (CM 3-9 Feb) mistakenly states that Seddon Atkinson does not offer an equivalent. We have a 6 x2 of practically equal specification, but with a payload advantage of over 800kg, and we are currently supplying 26 of these to various customers.

Frank Whalley Publicity Manager, Seddon Atkinson,

Points missed

y letter printed 6-12 anuary, generated a reply from Police Constable Stuart Ridgewell of Borough Green, (CM 27 Jan-2 Feb). Readers may recall that the articles related to tachograph seizure.

PC Ridgewell's reply left me wondering if it was in fact a response to my article or someone elses, but I noticed he had got my name right. I expect readers may have been interested in his interpretation of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE), but what it had to do with my observations I really cannot say At no time have I ever challenged or doubted the powers contained in PACE; it is the application of the Act in certain circumstances which is thought to be disproportionate in some "records" cases. An opinion anyone is entitled to express?

To quote an eminent judge: "Just because you have the power to do something, does not mean that you are compelled to do it, think of the spirit of the law". Another point missed by PC Riclgewell was the hypothetical question as to whether police should seize a record under PACE and hand it straight to a third party for proems. I am not

surprised that he said "I honestly can't see any loophole". This is unique, thank goodness he doesn't defend! I did notice that he had spotted that PACE 1984 was a later piece of legislation than the Transport Act 1968. A good point, but agencies other than police engage in enforcement and do not have police powers!

I have tried to keep my reply lighthearted, but I do not wish it to disguise my serious concern and disappointment at the last paragraph of PC Ricigewell's letter in which he says "Contrary to the view expressed by Mr Allen, the police and VI are not involved in some enormous conspiracy against the transport industry".

This statement is astonishing and completely without foundation, it does a serving police officer no credit at all and was ill-advised. After 35 years in active government enforcement, including the police service and the VI where I was in senior management, it is unthinkable that I should have such a remark levelled against me. It is also an affront to my former colleagues who I know are working hard to assist and advise the industry. I am baffled by the accusation and look forward to PC Riclgwell's acknowledgement that this remark was an error on his part.

John Allen Bexleyheath, Kent.

Commercial Motor welcomes readers' leters, which can be phoned in on 081-652 3689 (24-Hour service) or faxed on 081-652 8969. They may be edited for length and do not necessarily represent the views of the editor.


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