Eyesight losses
Page 28
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Having read your recent articles about eyesight changes, I would like to point out the effects on ownerdrivers. I have had mono vision since the age of four and held an 0-licence for 22 years. If the law comes into force on 1 July 1 stand to lose my entire business, including a contract worth more than
100,000 a year.
As a result, I will be unable to pay mortgage, bank loans, leasing payments and pension contributions. At the age of 58 I have very little chance of finding alternative employment.
All my creditors will lose out (including the Inland Revenue and Customs & Excise) and I will undoubtedly be forced to go bankrupt and become a financial burden to the state.
I notice that the ETA and RI-IA were aware of the situation 18 months ago and do not appear to have taken
any action. Also I employ both my sons and if I am not allowed to drive there will not be enough revenue to finance all three families.
T D Wright TMS Haulage, Stourport-on,Severn, Worcs.
Don't impound
ell done Jonathan Lawton (Sound Off CM 22-28 February)—at last we have someone who can see the pitfalls of impounding unlicensed vehicles, The whole thing has not been thought out at all.
I feel that the various editors and associations who call for impounding do so to appease their readers or members. You only have to look at the number of legitimate operators called to public inquiries over maintenance to realise that having a licence does not mean an end to problems in the haulage industry I do not condone those who fail to apply for a licence but contest that impounding or clamping those failing to display the proper licence is not the way forward.
Len Wright, Norwich.
Up the wrong track
Lorry bashing has long been a British popular sport and the press have done their share to whip up anti-lorry hysteria. Those who recognise the importance of the haulage industry look to CM to support the industry. Behind the road protesters' cause is
an overwhelming and irrational dislike of lorries.
Unless I am mistaken, CM appears to endorse the protesters' argument for switching freight back to the railways. Where would this leave the road haulage industry—and where would that leave society?
Peter Davies, Bedford.