VEHICLE PRICES INQUIRY
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A TOP LEVEL inquiry into commercial vehicle prices is Likely to emerge, following a letter from the Road Haulage Association to vehicle manufacturers complaining about current prices.
The RHA has told makers that prices have risen by up to 170 per cent in five years for a 32-tonner — and 35 per cent between January 1976 and January 77 alone.
"The commercial vehicle is the main physical asset of the road haulage industry and, although a vehicle's working life may vary depending on the particular operational characteristics, most hauliers aim to replace vehicles after five years.
"Hauliers are now finding that the price of new vehicles has risen to such an extent that they are unable to find the capital to replace existing vehicles," says the letter.
RHA does not exclude the possibility of an appeal to the Department of Prices and Consumer Protection to help safeguard the haulier.
The inquiry into prices is being held because the RHA is becoming more concerned that the operator is in a worse financial position due to recent increases in fuel duty and road tax.
And it complains that the prices of spare parts are also being adjusted to keep pace with the steadily climbing prices of new vehicles.