A total transport package
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WE HAVE NEVER subscribed to the view that late lobbying would influence a Chancellor of the Exchequer in the preparation of his Budget. Already he has had a plethora of advice from the trade associations. After-lunch and after-dinner speakers have taken every opportunity to tell Sir Geoffrey Howe what he should do to solve the economy.
At the Freight Transport Association South Eastern Region's lunch last week, Sir Peter Masefield joined in the chorus. He was persuasive. So persuasive that he has moved us from our intransigent position to join him. His advice was sage. it should be heeded.
He presented a total transport package which is much more practical than merely pleading for a reduction in fuel tax. His was a ten-point plan.
In addition to a reduction in fuel tax Sir Peter called for a vigorous road programme; long-term plans for British Rail; organisation for urban transport; examination of the issue of subsidy and investment in transport; establishment of a streamlined structure for air transport; resolution of the future for heavier lorries; decision on the future of South East airports; support for maritime trade and ship building; and the achievement of these bearing in mind social needs and the environment.
His package almost amounts to a pattern for an integrated transport system.
Perhaps David Howell should ask Sir Peter to develop his proposal into a composite plan. He is one of the few men with sufficient breadth of knowledge of the transport industry to do the job efficiently and quickly.