TMLs by 1972: forecast
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• "Prepare now for the Transport Manager's Licence", was the advice given to members of the Transport Association by Mr. George Wilmot, at its meeting in London on Tuesday. Mr. Wilmot said that the TML was living a ghost-like existence at the moment as a result of the delay since the TML committee made its recommendations to the Minister. "Now is the time," he said, "to think of the case to be put forward to the Licensing Authority as to whom in the organization is to hold the licence—whether it is to be a depot transport manager or perhaps a regional transport manager. The LA will have the discretionary powers to approve either if he is satisfied that other requirements will be met."
That the TML would definitely come Mr.
Wilmot was sure it was in the Act and could not be removed—but due to the change of Minister and shortage in the civil servants' ranks it would be later than expected. He predicted early 1972 for the first issues to managers already holding posts. New applicants after that, he thought, would get provisional licences and about two years in which to pass the examination. By autumn 1972, he thought, all newcomers would have to pass the examination before being granted a licence.
Fears among operators about the revoking or curtailment of TMLs due to single acts of indiscretion, illness or the like were completely without foundation, Mr. Wilmot said. Only continuous and frequent cases of mismanagement would cause the loss of a licence.
"I look forward to the time—although it may be a long time—when managers of all large fleets will hold the higher voluntary grade of licence. Nobody loves a lorry but the image must be improved and this is one way of doing it."
Three new members of the Transport Association are Dor-to-Dor Carriers Ltd., Brighton; Hubert Davis Ltd., Gloucester, J & E Transport Ltd., Rossendale, Lanes.