Tribunal allow objector's low-loader appeal
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• The Transport Tribunal has allowed the appeal by Docks Haulage Co Ltd against a decision of the South Eastern deputy LA, Mr A. C. Shepherd (CM April 17). On January 6 Mr Shepherd granted to R. J. Free and Sons Ltd, of Newbury, a B-licence variation to allow the deletion of a 1+-ton drawbar trailer and the addition of a 74--ton articulated low-loader. Docks haulage, of Southampton, who have three low-loaders licensed to carry all types of machinery within 200 miles, had objected at the public inquiry.
The Tribunal said that as the deputy LA had found there was "an unquestionable demand" for the respondent's services he was correct in granting the application. -We (the Tribunal), however, find ourselves in
the position of disagreeing with the deputy LA's finding that there was 'an unquestionable demand' for the respondents services." It decided that the 10 letters submitted as evidence of need, and which were all dated between July 2 and 14 1969. had been "solicited by the respondent for the purpose of supporting its application."
The Tribunal concluded its decision by saying that the need for the vehicle, which was to be available for hire and reward for only 30 per cent of the time, might well be apparent. It thought a further application with more "diligent preparation" of its evidence could well prove successful. The Tribunal's decision was deferred until June 1 so that any business commitments taken on by the respondent could he fulfilled.