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THE PANEL (continued) Philip Baker AJ Baker & Son Hastings,
Page 38
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East Sussex Owner-driver Philip Baker can see no immediate benefit for him from compulsory training; only added cost. At 57, with many years of experience behind him, he can see little incentive for drivers of his age and position to pay out for regular retraining.
"I'll be losing revenue and paying out at the same time," says Baker, whose business as a brick haulier relies on prosperity in the building industry.
"The prof it margin in my business is so slim the question is can I afford to pay for that training?"
The only potential benefit, he predicts, is that insurance companies might be persuaded to lower their premiums if drivers can prove they are safer on the roads because of frequent training.
However, early retirement is not an option for Philip. "I'm going to have to work until 65," he says.
Philip Baker