Traders Perturbed at Restrictions
Page 37
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THE brunt of the battle of road transport against restriction and railway domination is being borne by vehicle operators. This is recognized in the joint report of the Railways and Transport Committee and the Road Traffic Section of the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, which points out that there is no machinery of any kind for ascertaining the inters and requirements of transport users, as distinct from vehicle 'owners. The only evidence available during applications is that of individuals who may be customers of the particular haulier concerned, and prepared to submit to the ordeal of cross-examination.
It is emphasized that traders cannot afford to ignore the present development, as they are vitally interested in the nature of the facilities provided, and, whilst the existing competition is partly one of rates, it cannot be overlooked that there are other essential factors which justify the use of road transport. These include speed, freedom from breakage and simplification of packing—qualifications which it is difficult, if not impossible, for a Traffic Court to assess.
Grave concern is expressed at the protracted and detailed investigations which are being forced upon road operators during applications for the renewal of A licences. The railways, in common with other suppliers of transport, have a general right of objection, but the committee cannot avoid the conclusion that this is being arbitrarily and excessively exercised by the present wholesale objection to licenct% held by reputable concerns. It is certain that such action was never contemplated by traders when the Bill was before Parliament, and in 1933 the Minister of Transport, in reply to a written inquiry, stated that, subject to the right of objection, once the licensing provisions are in full operation, the grant of a fresh licence to a well-established operator who is conducting his business in an efficient and orderly manner will involve few formalities, and will be dealt with expeditiously.
The present widespread objections to renewals coincide with a period of expanding trade, a prosperity which is being• shared by the railways as well as by road operators. It is still more inexplicable, haying regard to the-fact that the railways, under their road powers, have. themselves acquired a number of businesses identical in char". aCter with those against Which they are lodging. objections in every part of the country. A strongly worded resolution embodying these and other points has been forwarded to the Minister of Transport, the West Midland Members of Parliament and important trading organizations.