The last place I would work Iwould like to reply
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to Martin Pellew's comments in "Sound Off" (CM 5-11 March). First, as one who has been given no favours in my chosen career in the road transport industry I am still loyal enough to defend it against its enemies. Perhaps Pellew could answer the following questions.
Did he see the TV programme some time back in which road transport was described as the "enemy" by rail managers? When talking about Sainsbury's rail operations he seemed to begrudge road transport having any involvement at all. Could he clarify these comments? As for myself, I am still waiting for my first chance to do continental runs after 23 years as an HGV drfrer, while the rail fraternity, lielped by their friends in overnment and traitorous ijoad transport operators, nake this seem increasingly unlikely. Ownerdriving, to ether with all its risks, is my only option. Does Pellew really think that any driver worth his salt would be satisfied with just shunting from railheads to the shops and back with a 44-tonner? I for o e, would rather throw my 1 cence in the nearest rubbis bin. Also if rail distributio was the last type of work le the finance company woul be more than welcome t have the truck back.
When o if rail finally does win the ba le, perhaps Pellew could explain what all the fitters, driver, transport managers, and those involved with making the redundant long-haul trucks will be retrained ' to. Meanwhile, cheap Eas European drivers, and their v hicles which run on a shoes ng will most likely throw a spanner in Pellew's train sets aid they will be the ones who lean up and walk away with he prize when rail discovers at it cannot handle the job after all.
G Bills, Claygate, Surrey