More Competition from Continent and Japan
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TO increase exports, the price of products had to appeal to the overseas buyer. That was difficult at any time; but the prospect was not made brighter by the certainty of increased competition from Italy, Germany and possibly Japan, which were sure to be formidable competitors in many markets.
This point was made by Lord Brabazon, chairman and managing director of Associated Commercial Vehicles. Ltd., at the company's annual general meeting last week. During the past year, he said. the Government had adopted a much more realistic attitude in authorizing export credit guarantees Over a longer period. but still further risks must be taken if exports were to increase.
Speaking of the home market, he said that most corporation transport undertakings had completed their postwar replacement programmes, and manufacturers must expect a period of marking time. Future programmes would be on a normal renewal basis. "It must also be remembered that our
vehicles today have a very much longer life in spite of operating many more miles per day than those produced prior to the war." he said.
There had been a steady demand for eight-wheeled goods vehicles.
Returning to national issues, Lord Brabazon suggested that now that the Government had made a start on road improvements—" though a very small initial programme "—further consideration might be given to "the present farcical [speed] regulations governing heavy road transport."