M.o.T. Reasons "Not Convincing" R DEFERRING to the Society's efforts lAto
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persuade the Ministry of Transport to allow two-axled buses to be built to a maximum'overall length of 30 ft., the annual report of the S.M.M.T. says that none of the reasons for refusing this important technical concession is convincing. The reasons relate to the size and number of vehicles on each route, which, the report points out, are matters in the sole control of the Ministry of Transport itself. It is also considered that buses 8 ft. wide should be permitted for general use.
The report ref,ers to the decision of Parliament, reversing its own declared policy, to grant Glasgow Corporation the power to manufacture bodies for motorbuses and trolleybuses.
On the question of research, it is stated that the Society is contributing £40,000 to the Motor Industry Research Association for the current financial year ending in June.
"The difficulties with which the motor industry is faced concerning material supplies are exemplified by the
fact that it was found necessary to hold 21 meetings of the materials committee and sectional committees within that body," says the report.
It is also mentioned that joint committees are collaborating in preparing a limited "Standard of Dimensions for Public Service Vehicle Chassis," and that a "Register of Vehicle Users" is under way.
Reference is made to the formation, last year, of the heavy vehicle manufacturers' section, of which the membership now numbers 19 concerns. Action is being taken to ensure the continuance in membership of the commercial vehicle section of those manufacturers of heavy vehicles who also make light goods and public service vehicles.
Reviewing progress in the motor industry, the report mentions the urgent need for providing adequate parking' spaces. "The authorities have not yet grasped the fact that the use of a vehicle, to be effective, must include both moving and standing," the Society's report states.