Many part-timers are experienced
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In answer to Mr L. J. Smith's letter (CM October 6), he should get his facts right. I am a member of the TGWU and an ex long-distance lorry driver for over 35 years.
I have also held a psv licence for nine years and now do part time. You have to get your form signed before you can renew your licence; you have also to have done so many hours driving a truck to qualify. I am taxed on my part-time earnings as well as my full-time earnings; I now work inside.
This "beef" about part-time coach drivers makes me sick. Some of the part-time coach drivers are ex long-distance lorry drivers like myself and have done a lot more mileage than some of the full-time drivers. Mr Smith, like a lot more brothers with a top job in the union, talks a load of rubbish. We have had to pass a test and pass a doctor's examination before we are allowed to drive a coach on the road, and what coach operator is going to sign your form if you are not employed by him full time or part time? He would be sticking his neck out So, Mr Smith, as a member of the TGWU you are classing me as an irresponsible element carrying passengers, Are you telling me you can question Dr Hunt's statistics?
For your information I used to drive artics, eight-wheelers and drawbar trailers all over England, Scotland and Wales when drivers had to drive. H. HALL, Parbold, Lancs.