Steel . Hauliers Protest T EES-S1DE haulage contractors who carried steel to
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all parts of England were having to face gut-throat competition" from other hauliers who were reducing their rates to gain more work, it was alleged before the Northern Licensing Authority, Mr. J. A. T. Hanlon, at Stockton-on-Tees last week.
The allegation was made by Mr. Siddle C. Cook, managing director of Siddle C. Cook, Ltd., Conseil, Co. Durham. Mr. Hanlon read a letter Mr. Cdok had written on behalf of himself and several Other local hauliers. In this Mr. Cook⢠said that haulage contractors engaged in the transport of steel to all parts of England had met recently to discuss the other hauliers, the legality of whose actions was "very much in doubt."
The haulage contractors asked Mr. Hanlon to meet a deputation from them. _Mr. Hanlon said he believed many haulage contractors engaged in the carriage of steel were finding great difficulty in obtaining work. "No haulage contractor likes to be an informer," he said, "but naturally they have to protect their interests."
He told Mr. Cook that he and the other haulage contractors could make their complaint at a public inquiry if they wished.
Mr. Cook said the R.H.A. had proposed 71% rate increases, yet the hauliers of whom he complained were cutting rates and putting other contractors out of work.
Mr. Hanlon then advised Mr. Cook to let the matter rest for the present. When he had met the other haulage contractors: they could decide whether or not they wanted the public inquiry.
"1 cannot take the complaint into account in respect of a particular company without letting them know," said Mr. Hanlon.