RHA backs objections
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• The Road Haulage Association is reversing its policy of rarely opposing 0-licence applications, following an attempt to stop a licence in the North-East.
The association — criticised in the past for shying away from licence bid objections — says it will now use its influence to block unsuitable applicants. "If the evidence is there, we will stand up and be counted," says director-general Bryan Colley.
Although the RHA is currently trying to halt former John Dee boss John Davison's attempt to gain a licence in five traffic areas, it has been slammed by North Eastern Licensing Authority Fred Whalley for making objections "as rare as hens' teeth" (CM 14-20 March).
Its north eastern district, however, has just opposed a licence renewal application by South Yorkshire operator Anthony Lawson on the grounds that the licence had allegedly been used by other unlicensed hauliers.
Geoff Dunning, RHA north eastern district manager, told a licensing hearing before Whalley that five vehicles had been specified on Lawson's licence at different times — four of which belonged to Sharon Shelby, trading as Sharon's Transport, and one to John Cook's Transport. Neither of these firms had an 0-licence and Lawson's wife had been the transport manager of Sharon's.
Lawson told Whalley that he borrowed tractors from Shar
on's Transport to take trailers for test and he specified them on his licence after being stopped by the police.
He denied that anyone else had used his licence.
Cook's vehicle had been put on his licence because he intended to take on the truck and the work if Cook failed to get a licence. Whalley granted Lawson a 12-month licence for only one vehicle and trailer.
Dunning says he is pleased by the decision. "The LA had commented that the RHA did not object often enough and we have taken that on board. Of course, each case must be taken on its merits. We have got to be careful that mud is not just being thrown by other operators wanting to get rid of a competitor but if we feel there is a case to object to, we will do so."
Bryan Colley is leaving the initiative with the local offices which have their ear firmly to the ground.