Hope for the Best, But Prepare for the Worst
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By " Tantalus "
Trenchant Views on the Feeble Efforts Which Have Been Made to Develop the Use of Fuels Alternative to Petrol and Oil
ON many occasions in the past we—as a Nation— have been criticized for alleged apathy, as also we have been accused , of invariably displaying antipathy towards anything in the nature of an innovation. It may be that we are possessed of a desire always to be regarded as originators and the first in the field so far as new schemes are concerned; that, in fact, we have an inherent dislike to being imitators. The course of this war, however, has tended to change any such outlook and we have learnt many lessons in a variety of ways.
Hitler and his satellites are past masters in the arts of adaptation and improvization; and these gifts have been abundantly exercised in an endeavour to secure adequate supplies of essential , war materials. For example, the Germans quickly realized the ovenvhelming importance of petrol in the war effort; and that upon so vital a commodity the issue of victory or defeat might well depend. It did not require a series of defeats and many setbacks to start the wheels of research rotating in respect of alternative fuels. As a matter of fact the early victories seemed rather to act as a stimulant in this direction. Different indeed is the manner in which this important queston has been dealt with in this country.
Assuming that supplies of petrol sufficient to meet all requirements were considered to be assured, surely there appeared a danger signal when Japan joined the Axis, as from that time onwards she became a potentially active member. Events have proved the seriousness of the position. The widening of the fields of hostilities has resulted in the taxing of our shipping resources (including tankers) to the fullest extent. The numerous accounts received of the splendid heroism and physical endurance diSplayed by crews bringing supplies of liquid fuel to our shores will be engraved for all time upon the. scroll of the brave.
Surprising Indifference to a Matter of National and Vital Importance
From time to time successive efforts have been made to secure an official policy—both progressive and constructive—in respect of alternative fuels. Questions have been asked in Parliament and, at intervals, numerous articles have appeared in the Press calling for decisive 'action; but without result. There has been marked hesitation and reluctance, amounting almost to indifference, regarding this matter—an attitude difficult to understand. Strange as it may seem, nevertheless it is true that it has been left to the House of Lords to force the issue and obtain a definite statement of policy. This is remarkable inasmuch as the Upper House has been regarded in the past as at least unfriendly, if not actually hostile, towards road transport. However, the noble Lords apparently were concerned at the official indifference displayed in this particular instance and—realizing the urgency of the question—determined to bring matters to a head. This was effectually accomplished during a recent lively and forceful debate which drew from the Minister of War Transport the long-sought official statement.
Lord Leathers assumed office at a time when transport problems were causing grave national concern. There was lack of direction, particularly regarding road trans
port, except in the matter of restriction. It was not long, however, before he showed a marked appreciation of the situation and since that time has given evidence of mastering the position.
The failure to recognize the necessity and importance of developing alternative fuels•in the early stages of the war is regrettable. The fact that a decision has now been made for the conversion of 10,000 vehicles to operate with gas producers is sufficient evidence of the need. In this connection the official statement raises certain issues. There is, for instance, the question of allocation. As there are in active use probably 100,000 or more vehicles which could be equipped to operate on producer gas, on what basis will the selection of the 10,000 be made? Will members of the M. of W.T. scheme be favoured in this respect or will all Iperatorswhether members or non-members—be accorded equal treatment regarding the distribution of producers when available?
Some important Questions as to Cost of Equipment and Fuel Supply
Then there is the question Grf the cost of the plant. Is this question of a standard or controlled price under consideration? Surely this is a matter of serious import to the industry and deservedly merits attention. It is possible that the capital expenditure involved in conversion may have an appreciable effect upon haulage rates.
One of the problems experienced in research work in connection with gas producers has been that concerning fuel. Have arrangements been made for obtaining adequate supplies of the right type of fuel and the grading thereof; as also for service depots which will be available when the vehicles are converted and ready for use? Will fuel prices be fixed? It is so easy to put the cart before the horse and it will be gratifying if, on this particular occasion, the horse is ready first and waiting for the cart. This is the expression of a pious hope.
Memory recalls the experience of owners of steam vehicles after the war of 1914-18, with regard to the excessively high rate of tax which they were called upon to pay. Indeed, the rate was so high that steamers were taxed off the roads. What a heaven-sent gift these vehicles would have been to-dayl It might be helpful if present-day operators who convert their vehicles were given assurance that—at some future date—they will not be treated in a similar manner to the steam-vehicle owners. They could be assured also that they will in no way be penalized as regards taxation, weight or speed, for a long-term period.
Another point which should not be overlooked is whether the cost of conversion will be subject to or free from income tax, irrespective of the class of licence under which the vehicle operates.
Mr. Noel-Baker, Parliamentary Secretary to the M. of W.T., recently stated that we may have to use producer gas ona large scale if the oil position becomes worse. I submit that—at this juncture and having regard to the trend of events—the petrol position cannot be expected to improve. Therefore, s it might be as well to make every possible provision against eventaaliths. In fact, should not the guiding principle be "Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst "?