Stop training for a better future
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• The article concerning driver training, (CM 6-12 Aug) was interesting. Here's hoping that when Britain recovers from this recession the recommendations may be introduced, but my concern now is for the trained, experienced professional who cannot find employment. The Department of Transport should stop any further training for a period of five years: all that is being produced now is cannon fodder suitable for any company requiring cheap labour.
Using the five years to set up a training programme covering all aspects of the driver's job, on fully laden, top-ofthe-range equipment, would mean our industry could face the future with confidence.
The Government, using the vast amount of our road taxes, should cover most of the cost. The student should pay a portion and every haulage company should pay a levy. The result should be a highly trained professional. The driving schools would suffer in the short term, but they would benefit in the long term.
The powers that be should also seriously consider an immediate stop to any further 0-licensing. It is difficult enough for established companies to find enough work for their vehicles without the DOT dishing out 0-licences like confetti.
The burden most of us have to bear is added to by a department which is unsympathetic to the industry it serves.
Peter Orr PF Orr Haulage, Elburton, Plymouth.