You have been warned
Page 4
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
PETER Thompson, chief executive of the National Freight Corporation, chose his subject well for the 1977 Henry Spurrier Memorial Lecture. The Government-sponsored committee which will shortly be examining the licensing system, and the Prices Commission, have had much of their ground work done. His clear exposition on the effect of the 0-licence system must not go unheeded. Although he specifically states that he is not advocating a return to carriers' licensing, the suggestion for a form of proof of need is there.
His concern over the continued fragmentation and growth of the small fleet sector is understandable for one in his role. It could be reversed if his proposals for a shorter working week and higher rewards were put into practice.
I The manufacturing industry cannot afford to ignore the fact that the Iincrease in spares costs of 180 per cent is now public knowledge.
Hauliers cannot afford to ignore the fact that they are third top of the tbankruptcy league.
The presentation of the paper is well timed, its content is well conceived, and its lessons !must be learned quickly. Hauliers will ignore it at their peril.