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PRICE OF GREENS
• The furore over British Steel's decision to start using trucks instead of trains to transport 9,000 tonnes of limestone a week from a quarry in picturesque "Herriot" country to its Redcar iron works is a classic example of environmental doublespeak.
On the one hand we have British Steel choosing the most efficient form of transport for its needs. On the other hand we have a promarket forces Government claiming that it is commited to putting more freight on the railways.
But when BS decides its cheaper to put its limestone traffic on the road the outcry is enormous. God help the haulier who ends up with the contract — the environmental brickbats are already flying.
If the Government really wants to keep freight traffic on the rails then it will have to put its money where its mouth is. So, for that matter, will the public, who are as quick to complain about lorries on "unsuitable" roads as they are when enforced detours lead to late deliveries at their local supermarket.
What we're really talking about is sufficient environmental grants to keep freight off the road.
Either that or accept that the reason why 85% of all freight goes by truck is that it is the most costeffective method of moving goods. Until the Government, or the Great British Public, is prepared to pay for environ mentally ac ceptable alternatives ' that's the way it will stay.