Editorial An Olympian Task
Page 4
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NICHOLAS RIDLEY may not be the most active or popular Transport Minister to occupy the post since Richard (now Lord) Marsh, but he could enhance his reputation this week. He should make it his most urgent, personal task to rid Europe's coach routes of lethal Greek touring coaches (see page 55).
While his jurisdiction does not spread throughout Europe his contacts do. An emergency meeting of the EEC Transport Council should be called to discuss the matter and put these lunatics off the road.
Too often we hear of horrendous accidents on long-distance coach runs. The 1984 episode has still to come. If David Wilcox's experience is typical and we believe it is a tragedy is not far away.
Compare the Athens run with the experience of another of our investigators (see page 49) and there can be no doubt that British standards should be imposed on the Greeks.
In recent years coach travel has become a desirable and popular means of transport. The vehicles, staff, arrangements and cost are all attractive features. Passengers have been won over from rail and air and business is developing. It will take only one incident to destroy much of what has been achieved.
That is what Nicholas Ridley can help to avoid. He should give the lead and act both swiftly and with determination. His efforts will be supported and could save life.