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Opinions and Queries

25th May 1940, Page 35
25th May 1940
Page 35
Page 35, 25th May 1940 — Opinions and Queries
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Which of the following most accurately describes the problem?

The Leicester-Manchester Pooling Scheme

I T is deplorable that at such a critical time in the history of dear old England one should find it necessary to defend any effort designed to help the country in its hour of trial. The Leicester-Manchester pooling scheme is 'indeed such an effort and, although still of tender age, has already proved its worth both to the country and to the operators participating: co-ordination between road operators is no new thing in Leicester, it has been practised for years with considerable advantage to those concerned. , The knowledge.and experience already gained are the foundation on which this scheme is now being built. By this properly organized, effort operators are able to present an unassailable case for their petrol and fuel, proving that the utmost economy and efficiency are being obtained from every gallon issued_ This effort, I submit, is a perfect example of the intentions of the Minister of Transport when preparing the plan for the organization of transport for a defence emergency. It is a product of the District Advisory Committee at Leicester, and instantly commanded the sympathy of the District Transport Officer. At the first meeting called, the chairman of teach association in this district was present. After the scheme had 'beenfully explained an adjournment for a fortnight was made for consideration and proposals. A unanimous vote in support was obtained for service hauliers concerned to participate.

On receipt of a letter from A.11,0. containing suggestions for still further widening the scope of the scheme, a further meeting was called, a technique was used' with which, unfortunately, we are these days too familiar, i.e., instead of help forthcoming, an organized party, many of them uninvited and disinterested in Leicester-Manchester traffic, came armed with a resolution to squash the effort entirely. I refused to accept the resolution. The scheme is entirely voluntary for any individual operator or firm to join. Those already participating will not be deterred by anyone "The Ministry of Transport will help those who help themselves." Operators cannot help themselves and their country better than by pooling traffic to save the maximum amount of imported fuel. Guns, tanks, planes and the Navy must have unstinted supplies. They are useless without it. Your duty is clear.

W. LATHAM,

Groby, Leicestee. " For S. Latham and-Son.

A S one who has attended the meetings relating to the Leicester-Manchester pooling scheme, I was somewhat surprised to read the report published in your issue dated May 18. Reciprocal arrangements between certain regular service hauliers have been in -force for quite a number of years. .As I understand it, the meeting .referred to in your article had nothing to do with either accepting or rejecting. such a scheme, but to see to what extent the present co-ordination of 'services could be. further developed.'

Whatever might be the view of certain iridividuals of a particular national bodY, it does' not alter the fact that the scheme has been adopted, has been put into practice, and has shown de.velopment.

Those who are within the Scheme will not, I know, be deterred by the lack of sympathy and understanding by a few firms who may occasionally haul loads between

these two centres. F. PLATT S, Leicester. (For Plaits Bros.)


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