It's here at last
Page 4
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By finally acceding to the European Court's ruling on tachographs Transport Secretary William Rodgers has restored some dignity to his office and pride to Britain. He will still face opposition from left wing backbenchers who might find difficulty in recognising a tachograph and from one officer of TGWU until he retires in a few months time.
The Minister can, and no doubt will, blame the European Court and will claim he fought bitterly and to the end. Whatever the noises may say, the announcement was a victory for common sense, even if it was a little late.
The process of implementation now begins and it should be short and sharp. We know that the RHA is ready to accept the instrument, we know also that the more responsible drivers find it acceptable. There is nevertheless a great deal of educating to be done if all are to benefit from the tachograph as they can.
The three manufacturers have training programmes ready for use. They promise to go anywhere at any time to familiarise users.
CM has consistently supported the introduction of the instrument and we too are ready to play our part. The enquiry bureau announced in page 5 is open from today. We are also prepared to organise seminars where there is a demand.
We believe that if Wm Rodgers is remembered for anything in his political career, it will be that even against his own judgement, he introduced the greatest aid to transport efficiency since the internal combustion engine.