Licence revoked
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The licence held by Michael Powell, trading as MJP Pallets, of Ebbw Vale, was revoked when he failed to attend a Cardiff disciplinary inquiry before Welsh Traffic Commissioner David Dixon. Powell had been called before the TO because of concern over his maintenance record.
Vehicle examiner Douglas Goff said the single vehicle operated had been given an immediate prohibition In January for a significant maintenance failure, because of a worn tyre, a brake fluid leakage and a defective load sensing valve.
He had attempted to carry out a fleet inspection in May but was advised that the vehicle was not available as it was in for repair. He was told by the driver that the vehicle was often parked in a layby opposite a pub when not in use.
Powell had admitted that he was no longer using his authorised operating centre. He had said that he was experiencing some financial difficulties. There were no maintenance records available and there was no driver defect reporting system. Powell had said that he planned to attend the public inquiry to surrender his licence.
Revoking the licence with immediate effect, the TO said he was faced with a problem when operators did not attend public inquiries because there was no chance to hear their side of the story.
However, non-attendance also indicated a disregard for the requirements of vehicle operation and a degree of contempt for the law.