STABILIZING LOCAL HAULAGE RATES
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SOME of the leading hauliers and merchant hauliers engaged in the transport of sand, ballast, etc., called a meeting on April 8th, at the Council Offices, Treaty Road, Hounslow, to discuss the serious position obtaining in their industry as the result of the cutting of rates for haulage.
Mr. Fowler, of Murrell's Wharf, Ltd., was elected chairman, and opened the discussion by dealing with the principal causes of the existing low rates for haulage, explaining the fact that when quarry owners operate vehicles they are able to run them at cost, taking their profit on the sale of the material. He emphasized the excellent work that has been done by the Ballast, Sand and Allied Trades Association, bat pointed out that that association did not and would not concern itself with haulage rates. Something must be done to stabilize rates, and the suggestion was that another association be formed which would work side by side with the B.S.A.T.A. and, it was hoped, in cooperation with it. No attack on consumers was contemplated, the object being merely to obtain economic rates and a fair deal.
The only serious weakness in the proposal, he said, was the possibility of lack of loyalty on the part of members of any association that might be formed, but so long as loyalty could be assured, much could be done by such a body to improve conditions in the trade.
Several of the 30 or more gentlemen present spoke in corroboration of Mr. Fowler, and after a thorough discussion it was proposed by Mr. Greenham, and seconded by Mr. Saunders, "that this meeting resolves to found an association of sand and ballast merchants and haulage contractors with the specific objects of dealing with haulage rates and protecting the interests of its members generally." This was carried unanimously, and Mr Fowler was elected chairman of the new association, the following gentlemen being elected to form a committee of seven :—Messrs. Clifford, Saunders, Janes, Defraine, Greenham, Gordon and Hands. Mr. Janes was asked—and agreed—to act as honorary secretary for the time being. His' address is Janes Bros. (Contractors), Ltd., 2c Building, Buckingham Avenue, Trading Estate, Slough. A. motion was unanimously passed expressing appreciation of the excellent work done by the B.S.A.T.A., and the hope that friendly relations might continue.
Another general meeting will be called shortly ; due notice of the time and place will be published beforehand in The Commercial Motor, and it is hoped all interested hauliers will attend.