R.H.E. Still Buying New Vehicles B IG orders for new vehicles
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were still being executed by manufacturers for the Road Haulage Executive, and makers were being pressed by officials for quick delivery, it was alleged at a meeting arranged by the Yorkshire (Hull) Area of the Road Haulage Association, last week. Taxpayers' money was being wasted in an absurd way in such purchases by an organization that had 5,000-7,000 vehicles standing idle each day, as well as many others not working to full capacity, speakers alleged.
Over 100 A-, Band C.-license holders, in addition to a number of former members of the R.H.A., attended the meet
B14 ing. Mr. H. Hunter, A.M.Inst.T., area chairman, gave a resume of the Transport Bill and stressed that clarification of several clauses was required.
Questions were asked whether tenders for operable units could be made by ex-hauliers who offered Transport Stock, and whether those hauliers who had not had their compensation claims settled could use their credits to buy R.H.E. assets. The desirability of basically similar vehicles being grouped in units for sale was urged.
Some speakers said that the position of the ordinary-permit holder was causing concern. As the law stood, applications tor renewals were mostly
necessary every three months. Permits were subject to revocation by the Executive at any time and without notice or compensation. It was asked whether hauliers should have to continue to apply to the R.H.E. for renewals and complete weekly traffic returns,-,
A representative of users said that transport charges were excessive and he asked whether free hauliers could offer more equitable rates.
It was emphasized on behalf of hauliers that the carrying of general goods and the arrangement of return" _ loads would facilitate the provision of efficient services and economic rates.