Supplementary memorandum by The Potter
Group (RH 03A)
ROAD HAULAGE INDUSTRY
During the enquiry, you asked if there was one single
initiative the Government could take to improve the transport
industry, what would that be?
At the time, I responded that it would be better
to combine a number of bite size chunks rather than one large
single decision and you requested any further comments in writing.
Following extensive and careful consideration
and discussions with other qualified parties, I would like to
enlarge on my reply.
The Government must, of course, consider how
they might decrease congestion on our road system. Should they
invest in trying to get more car travellers to use the train,
bus or air and would this policy give more immediate benefit than
investing in trying to convert freight onto rail.
Unfortunately it does take time to alter the
way people think. However, the Government's White Paper has certainly
made industry think about freight on rail. But the decision to
move from road can take up to two years or even longer due to—
Existing Contractual Arrangements
Freight Facility Grant Schemes
Re-organisation of systems and people
Study of benefits to environment
Cost models to ensure it does not cost more than
road
This immediately brings into the debate, the
question of 44 tonne for all heavy trucks. The current advantage
of approximately one tonne payload on rail operation as against
current road at 41 tonne is very important in industry's decision
making process. If 44 tonne becomes available to all then road
transport has a two tonnes advantage over rail.
I can confirm that we are currently in discussions
with a number of companies who could take advantage of the current
44 tonne on rail. Following the enquiry, I talked again to potential
and existing customers who clearly say that if the economies of
rail cannot compete with road they would be forced to use road.
The question is quite clear "Great Britain
Limited" requires an integrated transport system which reduces
road congestion and now the Transport White Paper is in place
it must be given time to take effect on all parts of the Community.
Finally, I would reiterate the invitation issued
at the enquiry to you and your colleagues to visit any one of
our railhead depots in order to witness how inter-modal operations
really do make best use of road and rail movements. With respect
I firmly believe this would be extremely advantageous in achieving
a greater understanding of the available options.
C D Potter
Chief Executive
15 March 2000
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