Makers Admit Delay in Supplying Spares
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GUARDED admissions of shortcomings in the supply of spares have been made by certain vehicle manufacturers following a complaint to the Society of Motor Manufacturers -and Traders by the National Road Transport Federation. The complaint was initiated by the West Midland Division of the Traders' Road Transport Association. The S.M.M.T. referred the Federation's letter to members.
A major reorganization, including the integration of Austin and Nuffield parts departments, had tended to limit the ability of B.M.C. Service, Ltd., to produce a fast service, the company explained. The reorganization was now nearing completion. An improvement in supplies, of certain difficult items was expected.
Morris Commercial Cars, Ltd., referred to a reorganization of parts supply and were conscious that the position "does perhaps leave a little to be desired." Integration at Cowley of B.M.C. parts supply should be completed within the next few months and there were signs of improvement.
Commer Cars, Ltd., said that they had certain known shortages of noncurrent parts, but were unaware of general shortages of replacements for current models. The company were particularly anxious to find where operators experienced difficulty in obtaining parts.
So far as Bedford lorries were concerned, stated Vauxhall Motors, Ltd., there ought not to be any undue delay in supplying parts for current vehicles.
SWINDON TO RUN OVER BOUNDARY
A SUCCESSFUL application was I-1 made by Swindon Transport Department on Tuesday to carry workers to the Pressed Steel factory 440 yd. beyond the town boundary. The Western Licensing Authority was told that if workers had to change to buses of the Bristol Tramways and Carriage Co., Ltd., at the boundary the fare would be 6d., instead of 41d. direct by Swindon bus. The Authority thought it reasonable that the department should carry Swindon people to the factory.
Bristol Tramways later withdrew their objection when the department wished to extend another service 354 yd. beyond the boundary to the works. The company maintained that they had pioneered country services in the face of difficulty and should be allowed to reap any benefit which now accrued.
Mr. H. C. W. Ludgate, general manager of the department, considered that the distance involved should be considered as being within the protected area of the corporation. The extension was granted.
Bristol Tramways were permitted to operate a new service between Wroughton and the factory.