Furious contractors
Page 20
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I n response to PF Hemmingway's comments regarding Fastrac-type vehicles (CM 27 July-2 August) I must say he is very naive or is just concerned about his sales figures.
He made various points which were supposed to clarify the situation as to the legality of this practice, and has only succeeded in making genuine contractors absolutely furious at his suggestions. The table shows which type of vehicle is the cheapest to run and it also shows which is the most unregulated and therefore the most dangerous on the roads.
Furthermore, we all know that it is not legal for agricultural vehicles to compete with hire or reward hauliers but let me ask three • Who used to haul the farmers goods before Fastracs?
• Who is policing and regulating these vehicles ?
• Who could prove which farm the goods were picked up from? (Haven't farmers worked together swapping plant since farming was born ?) So for once I fully agree with a policeman and commend PC Lambert for raising a subject which has frustrated and worried us for quite a number of years and I hope that more officers and/or the Department of Transport see what's going on and bring fair competition and safety back to our roads. James Baillie Transport manager, Badlie Brothers (Contractors), Garmouth, Morayshire. August 1995 and particularly the item concerning J F Alford Transport Limited and its drivers On behalf of the 17 drivers who pleaded guilty we must point out that those pleas were entered to a reduced number of counts. Further, contrary to the indication you give no driver pleaded guilty to any matter involving forgery.
I trust the position is now clear and that, in fairness to the drivers concerned, this clarification will be published, Mike Oliver Wedlake Saint, London.