Fares Dispensation For Coach Firm
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N objection by a Shropshire coach operator to fares increases proposed by the West Midland Traffic Commissioners led to a two-clay hearing at Birmingham this week. Midland Red and nine local operators supported the Commissioners' proposed fares. H. Brown and Sons, Oakengates. established coach operators since 1921, opposed the higher fares, said their advocate, Mr. D. E. Skelding, because they feared the effect on their Saturday excursions to Blackpool, Manchester, London. Birmingham and Coventry.
Mr. 1. B. Griffiths. traffic superintendent of Midland Red, said their interest was not academic. Round fares to Birmingham and Coventry were less than half of Midland Red stage carriage fares, " If news gets around in the Oakengate area that one operator charges less it must draw passengers from other operators. It is a matter of principle that there should be a standard rate."
Mr. H. Granter, for nine objectors. said Brown and Sons figures showed beyond doubt that additional revenue was needed. The public was conditioned to increases.
Mr. J. Else, chairman of the Commissioners. said Brown and Sons licence would be varied in accordance with the notice served, but if they so applied dispensation would be given on fares to Birmingham. Coventry and London up to the end of 1966 and Blackpool to the end of 1965. The Manchester fares would be examined at a subsequent hearing.