7Ms need status'
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I reject completely the implication that TMLs are an unnecessary burden to the transport industry, although I concede there is considerable room for improvement in the Transport Act drafting of the qualifications required to hold such a licence.
Firstly, I think, the TML will be another step towards achieving the status of professionals, something with which the transport industry should be more concerned.
Although I am here voicing only my own views on this matter, I feel sure that many of my contemporaries would echo my sentiments as to the incredible lack of knowledge shown by senior managements concerned with their companies' transport, whether the vehicles are used for their own needs or for hire and reward.
Some engineers and TMs hold brilliant technical qualifications, but very, very few can calculate axle or c of g or even know where to start on C and U Regulations, consequently the wrong vehicle is selected, resulting in expensive maintenance and loss of working potential.
My own experience has been that the acquisition and operation of vehicles seems on occasions to be given little or no thought. The rule of thumb applied here is: "Well, we had one like that before"— even though packaging techniques and handling systems have changed radically.
In defence of those managers who do know how to specify the correct vehicle for the job, the decision is not left to them generally. One finds it rests with the accountant or company secretary. who is almost oblivious to operating requirements and concern themselves only with cost. If. however, this same manager had the status the TML would undoubtedly give him and justly deserves, it is unlikely that he would be so easily overruled in decisions affecting the acquisition, maintenance and operation of his vehicles.
PAT HOLLAND, Winchester, Hants.