State Haulage a White Elephant
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THE campaign on behalf of free hauliers in the West Midland Area of the Road Haulage Association was opened last Saturday by the Dudley and district sub-area with a parade of more than 150 vehicles over a route of nearly 20 miles. The objects of the procession were to protest against the revocation of original permits and to bring home to working people the
adverse affect of transport nationalization on the cost of living.
A public-address van was used to explain the shortcomings of a nationalized transport monopoly to members of the public who lined the streets in the towns and crowded to their front doors in the residential 'areas.
The centre of attraction was a large model of a white elephant, bearing the slogan " Nationalization—a White Elephant." Other slogans included: " We Demand Freedom to Serve You "; The Free Hautier Stands Between You and Dearer Living Costs "; "Only Us Between You and Transport Monopoly—Help Us to Help You." Behind the elephant was a large balloon inscribed with the words, "Nationalized 'fransport—It's all Wind."
Drivers Enthusiastic
The many caustic comments from the spectators were regarded as a hopeful sign by Mr. .1. T. W. Parnell, R.H.A. area organizer. Mr. Parnell told a representative of "The Commercial Motor," who watched the procession, that all the drivers were enthusiastic participants.
The towns on the route taken included Dudley, Brierley Hill, Blackheath, Rowley Regis and Netherton. The total vehicle strength 'of member concerns in the sub-area is between 500 and 600. The majority of members sent vehicles to take part in the parade.