Keeling's Licence Renewal Refused
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APPLICATION for the regrant to Messrs. A. E. Keeling and Sons, of Viaduct Garage, Kirkstall Road, Leeds, of A licences in respect of 10 vehicles and two trailers, was refused by the Yorkshire Licensing Authority (Mr. Joseph Ferndale), at Leeds, on Monday. In announcing this decision. Mr. Ferndale said it was based solely on that provision of the Road and Rail Traffic Act which was concerned with the previous conduct of Mr. Joseph Keeling, a member of the applicant firm, in the capacity of a carrier.
Mr. W. R'. Hargrave, who appeared for the applicants, intimated after the hearing that they would appeal against the Licensing Authority's decision. Previously, Mr. Hargrave had asked for an adjournment of the hearing, in order that Mr. Joseph Keeling, serving a term of imprisonment resulting from a conviction at Leeds Assizes, could attend to give evidence. Mr. Ferndale ruled that the hearing must proceed.
Giving evidence, Mr. Edward Keeling, a member of the applicant firm, said he had previously devoted himself to the petrol side of the business, and his brother, Mr. Joseph Keeling, had been concerned with the haulage side. Consequently, he (witness) could not furnish figures required.
Questioned by Mr. Hargrave, Mr. Keeling said that a haulage business existed. The two trailers had not been used for a year, and one vehicle had not been employed for two or three weeks, but there was sufficient business to justify the reiewal qf the licences. The business was being conducted on proper lines.
Frank Thompson, an employee of the applicants, said that, on the aver-, age, seven vehicles were required for the firm's Newcastle parcels service: Mr. Hargrave suggested that convictions against drivers ought not to be considered in such a case as this.
He added that the most serious conviction was against only one partner and, if the application were refused, the punishment would fall on innocent shoulders.