An inquiry into a Liverpool company suspected of lending its licence to other operators has been adjourned so the nominated transport manager can be quizzed by North Western Traffic Commissioner Beverley Bell. Greycourt Transport Services, which holds a licence for six vehicles and six trailers, was seeking to increase its authorisation to 12 vehicles and 12 trailers. It had been called before the TC because of concerns that its licence had been used by a haulier whose licence had been revoked.
Asked why transport manager Arthur Stoddart was not present, Michael Oliver, appearing for the company, said he had declined to appear. Although still with the company Stoddart had been replaced as transport manager by Maxine Eccles. The TC said she would be calling Stoddart to appear at a public inquiry, adding that she took a dim view of the case.
The company had some explaining to do about J&H Transport (North West) and Container Transport Services. It must also explain how it had allowed its licence to be used by Eric Mercer, enabling him to continue operating. Her decision regarding those companies had been circumvented. Oliver said it was accepted that the licence had been used - the issue was whether the company had allowed it to be used. It still required the current interim authority for the additional vehicles as the business was expanding because shipping lines wanted more traffic moved.
Not Transferable
O-licences are not
transferable and TCs take an extremely serious view of licences being used by people who are not entitled to them.
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