Value for Money
Page 35
Page 36
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
THE Motor Industry Research Association was treated to some complimentary—and highly deserved—remarks by the Minister of Transport, Mr. Ernest Marples, at its luncheon last week, The Minister rightly reminded all members present of the importance of the part played by M.I.R.A. in assisting manufacturers to develop new vehicles and equipment. He also spoke of its contributions to transport in other directions, such as the current researches into the problem of vehicle noise and those concerning the effects of vehicle exhausts in relation to air pollution. They are but two of many such examples, past and present.
M.I.R.A. has come a long way, in distance and in scope, from its original humble home. The present Nuneaton premises already offer a tremendous variety of testing facilities, and among new facilities soon to be added will be an improvement to the present Colonial test track.
Although little of the work undertaken by the staff of M.I.R.A. comes to the ears of commercial vehicle operators, and it might therefore seem to be of little importance, all operators owe a considerable debt of gratitude to that body. Without it, current advances in design might not be so readily achieved. Manufacturers, for one thing, would undoubtedly have to spend more individually on research. This could, although it not necessarily would, be reflected in either prices or developments. Exports could be affected adversely by the absence of the centralized facilities offered by M.I.R.A.
Another Minister, Lord Hailsham, remarked at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders' dinner, at the time of the Commercial Motor Show two months ago, that the amount spent on M.I.R.A. was a small part of the motor industry's £625m. turnover. He suggested more should be spent in this direction. Be that as it may. M.I.R.A. already give; very good value for the investment in its technical staff and facilities. The users of commercial vehicles should remember that —and be thankful for it.