Rural Indecision
Page 3
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THE reports of the Traffic Commissioners for 1962-63, published yesterday (see page 43), once again draw virtually unanimous attention to the continually worsening plight of rural stage services. Such operating economies as can be achieved have long since been put into effect. Far from helping, the Ministry's misguided authorization of small p.s.v. has merely aggravated the position; many carry illegally. Stage operators in these areas can no longer rely on school contracts; these now all too often go to an outsider who, untrammelled with regular services, tenders a lower price and gets the licence. At one time, the country bus operator could rely on private-hire work in the evenings and at week-ends; now everyone travels by car.
There is nothing new in what has just been stated. It must be well known in Government circles. Prof. Jack made it clear in the report of his committee. That report, incidentally, was published on March 15, 1961, and still the Government has taken no action!
True Mr. Marples said, just before the House of Commons rose for its summer recess, that he hoped to come to a decision in the autumn. But rural bus operators have had so many promises, so little help. Meanwhile the buses have to keep running. Why adjourn for tke summer holidays, Mr. Minister? What is wrong with a decision now? Nearly two-and-a-half years is long enough time to reach a decision, without prolonging the agony any further.