Shun the Pirates Plea
Page 45
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WIGAN Trades Council have appealed to trade union members not to accept lifts to work by private transport. Not only had lack of patronage for works services resulted in some buses being taken off, but it was felt that in the long term the employment of drivers and conductors was being jeopardized, Mr. D. Wakefield, Wigan district secretary for the Transport and General Workers' Union, told The Commercial Motor. These facts were being called to the attention of every trade union secretary and branch delegate in the Wigan area.
Mr. Wakefield said that he had seen a similar trend in Blackpool and it had assumed the aspect of a national problem. Owners of the minibus-type of vehicle were particularly likely to give regular lifts.
Large cars were used to take out the family at the week-ends and to transport workmates during the week. There was no proof that fares were being charged for this form of private transport, hut obviously those responsible might find themselves in difficulties if payment came to light.
The Commercial Motor understands that a ifleeting took place last week between representatives of the Municipal Passenger Transport Association and the North Western Traffic Commissioners, at which the latter were urged to take strong action against unlicensed car and minibus operators who were poaching municipal undertakings' passengers and carrying them in some way for hire or reward.
It is understood that the authorities are keeping a close watch on the minibus form of operation.