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5th April 1963, Page 3
5th April 1963
Page 3
Page 3, 5th April 1963 — No Change
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Which of the following most accurately describes the problem?

THERE had been a distinct note of optimism this year that the 1 Budget would bring some relief from fuel tax. The more cynical might have queried the validity of this optimism, but the presumption was that some reason existed for it. The optimists were wrong; Mr. Maudling did not accept the special problems of road transport operators any more than his predecessors had done.

What would have been achieved if the Chancellor had allowed some relief? Fare increase applications which are currently pending will noW have to be pressed, wherea3 some decrease in the rate of fuel tax would have been the means of avoiding a number of these. Just when Dr. Beeching wants to ditch many of his rural passengers, the Government shows no inclination to do anything about encouraging bus operators to maintain the existing uneconomic services— still less to consider putting on new services. The possibility of jam tomorrow in the shape of ex-rail passengers in no way compensates for the lack of bread today in the shape of fuel tax concessions.

The rates committee of the Road Haulage Association is to meet soon to discuss whether to recommend increased charges. The committee had adjourned a February meeting to await the result of Wednesdays Budget—they need not have bothered. If anyone is in any doubt about the pressure on hauliers they should read the comments on pages 64 and 65 of this issue.

Tags

Organisations: Road Haulage Association
People: Maudling, Beeching

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