An end to timorous beasties
Page 67
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YOUR LEADER "Mice or men?" (CM, December 4) strikes a forcible note.
As to the "somebody or some organisation that will give the lead", I believe we already have those who are actively leading and making known our cause.
But and here's the rub there are too few followers keen to stand-up and fight for our industry.
We must launch an all-out publicity campaign now and constantly in the future.
Why cannot our vehicle owners tell the public more forcibly and regularly the important part they are playing in the lifeblood of the nation?
Heavy vehicles, like buses, coaches, refuse disposal equipment, articulated vehicles delivering to major multiple stores are accepted by the general public as a part of everyday life, because they are absolutely essential to public welfare, and the public knows it.
Yet, the transfer of goods between cities and towns, and through and around them, is looked upon as one of the greatest scourges of our time.
The public is obviously aware of the need for commercial vehicles of all sizes and maximum allowable weight in some places, so why-the distinction?
Admittedly, the recent small increase in weight will bring some limited benefits, but not without extra cost in Construction and Use obligations.
We must have a concerted programme extolling the importance of our industry, and its ability, to compete with our European partners in the future. Having served on committees at local, regional and national levels, I realise that our leaders do a good job, often with more brickbats than bouquets as
thanks, and that goes for committee members too!
Constant lobbying of MPs and local councillors and talks with interested parties at local, regional and national level must be the answer.
I wonder what a good television series showing on the working lives of drivers, warehousemen, ma intenance crews, despatch and receipt offices could do, particularly if backed-up with facts and figures showing how daily life depends on us?
The dangers of changes to our future status brought about through the ballot box, entirely from ignorance, are not fully realised. Everyone in the industry should see to it that a public relations campaign is part of the daily routine.
NIGEL BREEZE Southend-on-Sea