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192 
JANUS
Page 66
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WRITES
Security is an attitude of mind'
IN a single train robbery, if the estimated loss of £.21 m. is correct, a gang of thieves were able to get away with the equivalent of the proceeds of several thousands of larcenies from goods vehicles in the London area, spread over four or five years. It would be a mistake to draw the conclusion that the criminals will become disciples of Lord Stonham and switch their business from road to rail. The latest report from the vehicles' security committee set up by the Road Haulage Association is that the number of vehicle thefts, although it may not be increasing, is certainly not falling off.
Where the comparison between the first half of this year and last year is encouraging—to road transport operators and users if not to the thieves—is that the average value of each loss has decreased by approximately one-fifth. One possible inference, borne out by evidence from the Vehicle Observer Corps, is that the thieves are having to be satisfied with what they can get from the smaller lorries and vans, because the larger vehicles, especially those with the more valuable loads, are better protected than they were even 12 months ago.
Some operators obviously have listened to the committee's advice on major matters such as the careful choice of drivers and the fitting of security devices, and on smaller but important points such as the deletion of tell-tale numbers from keys, ignition switches and locks. Far too many loaded vehicles are still left unattended on the streets at night, but the use of the new lorry parks in central London is increasing after a discouraging start, and there may soon be a further demand for more accommodation. Regularly the committee is being asked to consider the payment of a reward for fruitful information, and the strength of the observer corps is growing month by month.