Opposing Demands from Operators
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THE demand for lighter vehicles by British operators in the search for fuel economy is unfortunate at a time when the demand from overseas is for larger and more powerful vehicles, according to Mr. C. B. Nixon, chairman of Leyland Motors, Ltd.
"The cost of producing two complete ranges, involving the duplication of service stocks, is a serious and growing handicap," he says.
Misgivings arising from denationalization, threats of renationalization,
purchase tax and fuel tax, and the .20-m.p.h. speed limit, were all disturbing factors in the eyes of prospective home buyers of heavy vehicles.
Order books had contracted, backlogs were being rapidly cleared, delivery dates had shortened and competition was keener both at home and abroad.
Large sums of money had been ploughed back into the company to ensure efficient production, and to establish a chain of sales outlets overseas During the year Albion Motors, Ltd., achieved the highest turnover in their history, and they had made major contributions to developing new models.
Reviewing the company's overseas subsidiaries, Mr. Nixon said that Leyland-Holland, N.V., had had a successful year, whilst progress had been made in developing Leyland Belgium, S.A. In Spain, Leyland Iberica, S.A., had set up a new record. Although losses were incurred by Leyland Motors (Canada), Ltd., it was,
felt that the properly was a sound investment which would show a steady appreciation in value.
Mr. Nixon said it was the intention in Australia to integrate Leyland interests with those of Albion on the lines successfully adopted in South Africa.
INQUIRY INTO COUNTER-CLAIMS ON NEW SERVICE
THE Minister of Transport has ordered an inquiry into an objection by Hebble Motor Services, Ltd., against a Provisional Order promoted by Bradford Corporation for a trolleybus service for the Buttershaw housing estate. The corporation, in turn, are opposing Hebble's application to extend their existing motorbus service along the same route.
The inquiry will be hey' by the Yorkshire Licensing Authority, Maj. F. S. Eastwood, at Bradford, on March 26.
COVENTRY INSTALL G.E.C. RADIO
TO cut down waste mileage and speed up repair and maintenance work, Coventry Corporation have equipped a Bedford tower wagon with G.E.C. twoway radio. There is a main transmitterreceiver at headquarters.
Once the other municipal tower wagons have been similarly equipped, night-patrol and other maintenance vans will have radio installed.