Should Fuel Go To Existing Operator ?
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SHOU LD an established operator. compelled to suspend a service because of fuel rationing, take over a works service and run the two together. in preference to a small operator who had been operating irregularly?
This question was raised at Manchester, last week, when the North Western Road Car Co.. Ltd.. objected to an application by Mr. K. K. Shaw, Kenlya Garage, Dobcross, Oldham, for permission to continue operating a works bus service between Oldham and the Globe Worsted Company's mill at Slaithwaite.
Mr. Shaw said that he had now discovered that, through a misunderstanding, he had been running the service illegally for over 18 months.
When he took over the service under contract, following the withdrawal of a train formerly used by the workers, he was under the impression that the bus was paid for by the company. It now transpired that the passengers contributed towards their fares.
Questioned by Mr. F. Williamson, chairman, Mr. Shaw said it would require 25 gal. of fuel a week to keep the service in operation, North Western had suspended their regular service between Oldham and Slaithwalte because of the fuel situation.
Mr. Williamson said that North Western, although they were not present, were objecting on the grounds that they provided the services in the area. It was difficult to see why they should not have the fuel and combine the services.
The situation was complicated by the fact that the route was in both the North• Western and Yorkshire Traffic Areas, and the Yorkshire Commissioner would have to find the fuel. So far as the north-west was concerned, they would grant a temporary licence without prejudice to the hearing of the substantive and backing applications, when the North Western Company could state their case