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A new-style monopoly

23rd April 1976, Page 38
23rd April 1976
Page 38
Page 38, 23rd April 1976 — A new-style monopoly
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Which of the following most accurately describes the problem?

After reading about the trials of the eight-hour day which you published, I am surprised that any politician in his right mind can deliver us into a scheme which will be so costly that this country cannot afford it. Your trials were done on the main truck routes, but did not go north of Glasgow, where there is little, or no, motorway reducing commercials to 40mph.

My company like many others operates a bonus scheme on the work done daily (miles covered, etc) and with a limit of 281 miles per day, for one driver, their bonus scheme will not put very much in his wage packet. This can only result in a large demand on the basic rate of E1 per hour. A representative of the Scottish drivers has already said to local press that they would seriously consider another strike if the eight-hour day was brought in.

When two drivers are used to beat the 281-mile limit, you would have to pay both drivers continuously, whether driving, or resting, and on a mileage bonus scheme the mind boggles at the cost. This cost, I may add, would have to be passed on.

Just last week Mr Healey asked the unions and the British people to accept a 3 per cent increase with various tax concessions. The eight-hour day will cost us all more than 3 per cent even if our taxes were halved, and he can't do that.

Britain, or certain politicians in Britain, seem to think that we can afford this expensive move to keep in step with other members of the Common Market. I thought we joined the Market to trade to full advantage, not to change our way of life. I can also remember when some of the Six did not want us. So why should we change for them now, especially on domestic • haulage work ?

J. M. GONIO, Glasgow.

Tags

People: Healey
Locations: Glasgow

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