Operator was 'within an ace' of losing licence
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AN eleven vehicle Norfolk sand and gravel haulier was told by the Eastern deputy LA last week that he had "come within an ace" of having his licence revoked.
William John George of Blackborough End, King's Lynn, had his licence curtailed by six vehicles for the remainder of its duration. Two further vehicles were suspended for three months after the deputy LA commented that the first curtailment would have little practical effect as only four vehicles were in daily use. Mr George had earlier said that he hopes to have seven vehicles in use shortly.
Through a solicitor, Mr George admitted receipt of five GV9s, some endorsed neglect, during March this year. He stated that he had left his drivers to take their vehicles to a garage if they found anything wrong with them. Asked by the deputy LA, Mr Gerald Kidner, whether there was any system for regular inspection and maintenance Mr George replied: "Not really". He agreed that he had failed in the undertakings given when the licence was obtained. Mr George was unable to explain why it was that at a previous public inquiry in August last year, when no complaint was made about his maintenance, his vehicles were in good condition and yet six months later his arrangements had almost totally collapsed.
Commented Mr Kidner: "You do not appear to know what vehicles you have. You do not know if a vehicle due for inspection yesterday actually was done. It seems to me you do not know your responsibilities under the Transport Act."
Giving his decision Mr Kidner referred to the decision of the LA at the previous inquiry. Mr Kidner said that the LA had referred to considerable negligence involved in documentation which had led to unauthorised use. Now there was an almost complete lack of maintenance and no apparent reason. Mr George had not shown enough care or responsibility as an operator and had come within an ace of having his licence revoked.