Brake warning
Page 19
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O(Aver the past few weeks I have been reading with interest and utter disbelief some of the proposals being put forward by the pressure group Brake.
First of all, Brake has received calls from operators supporting its cause. Well, who are these operators? What haulier actually wants more legislation? Drivers and operators need more legislation like they need a hole in the head. If hauliers want something to do they should be fighting for better rates and tackling constant rises in costs and fuel.
While I agree vehicles must be well maintained and the rules must be observed, the legal framework is already there for controlling operators on all matters. The Licensing Authorities already have wide powers to inspect vehicles and records with little or no notice to the operator, at his premises, on the roadside or wherever they choose. What is needed is more enforcement of the present regulations, not tougher fines. On a positive note, I do agree with some of Brake's aims. A register of driver training schools (in line with. CM'S campaign— Ed) is a very good idea and, while new truck drivers are being trained, maybe it would also be a good time to show them how to secure all types of loads and teach drivers their hours rules and how to use tachographs. And I agree that unlicensed vehicles should be confiscated—operators should not be allowed to operate outside the law.
But this is where my sympathy with the Brake campaign ends. Campaign director Mary Williams does not think that £5,000 is a big enough fine for using a defective vehicle or ignoring the rules. Well I beg to differ. It might seem a paltry amount to members of Brake, but as an owner-driver struggling to make a living, it is quite a substantial sum.
Brake wants six-monthly checks on brakes, steering and speed limiters. I can't see many hauliers supporting this. It is all very well saying if you have got a roadworthy vehicle you have nothing to worry about. In effect this would probably become a second test when one is currently deemed sufficient. My vehicle is checked every six weeks, nothing is left to chance; I simply do not need what Brake proposes.
I do not see what is wrong with continuous 0-licensing. It was aimed at reducing administration for operators, which can only be a good thing. 0-licences can be suspended or revoked at any time under present regulations.
Finally, as for bringing corporate manslaughter charges against hauliers convicted of unlawful killing, this should receive very careful consideration. I will reserve judgement on that because all facts should be examined, leaving no margin of error whatsoever.
My message to Brake is to tell the Department of Transport to get out there with their torches and hammers and start prodding and tapping away and stop accidents before they happen.
My message to hauliers is to read all Brake's proposals again: they affect you! It's the thin end of the wedge. Andrew Thomas.
Andrew Thomas Haulage, Haverfordwest, West Wales