From our customers’ point of view, any decision, whenever it’s enacted, will certainly not change the close focus on compliance and vehicle operating standards. Far from it. The focus will get even sharper and the consequences for non-compliance even tougher.
The Department for Transport’s (DfT) report into the work of the TCs also proposed overhauling the current fee structure in order that its operating deficit is removed and enabling it to be fully funded through the fees it charges.
The recommendations, which would have a significant impact on the way the TCs currently operate, followed a public consultation into their function.
It suggested the DfT proceeded with an initial change to allow the TCs to make tribunal rules, including cost orders: “With increased powers, the TCs would be better able to manage their hearings which should make them both more effective and more efficient in the longer term,” the report said.
That Motor Transport article carried a line from Chris Powell, principal associate at law firm Weightmans, saying that the proposed recommendations could fundamentally reform the licencing regime and affect all licence holders. “The recommendation to replace individual traffic commissioners with a single specialist tribunal could mean stronger powers to take action against operators who don’t hit the mark,” he said.
“Meanwhile, the proposals to reform the fee structure would more than likely mean higher costs coming down the line for operators who run larger fleets.
“However, the big question hanging over this all is whether we’ll actually see anything change, given that we’d need new primary legislation, with limited parliamentary time and a looming general election,” Powell added.
Whatever happens, our customers can have confidence in the fact that any trucks or trailers supplied by us - providing our scheduled maintenance and inspection routines are adhered to - will be modern and fully compliant.
The principles of Safe, Legal, Compliant are at the heart of everything we do, and we take our reputation, and that of our customers, very seriously.
We consistently meet and exceed the demands of the UK’s regulators, and we’re proud to supply the safest trucks and trailers on the road.
At a time when so much in the transport world is changing or being closely questioned, we are working hard to ensure you can still rely on our high standards of quality and service.
Why not take a few minutes to contact us on 0800 032 9766 to discuss how we can help keep your fleet and staff compliant and on the right side of the law?