SALE OF PETROL

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31111, 14 July 1966, Page 10

SALE OF PETROL

Licence Refused In dismissing an application for a motor spirits licence lodged by A. S. A. Thomson, the Motor Spirits Licensing Authority said yesterday it failed on all grounds and could not even be considered premature. The Authority (Messrs J; W. Bain, F. S. Taylor and G. Laurence) said Thomson’s application, to sell petrol from two pumps at his service station and garage and also sales, otherwise than through pumps, at his premises on the corner of Chapman and Bowen streets, Rakaia, failed all tests. Thomson (Mr L. M. O’Reilly) said in evidence that, although his winter trade was low, during the summer months he had to take on more staff and there was an increased demand for petrol. New premises had enabled him to undertake more motor repairs. In its decision, the Authority said the case for satisfying public interest had, not been proven and the application failed every substantial garage test. Although Thomson said his turn-over would be about double compared with the last financial year, the Authority was not satisfied. The analysis of total figures showed a “very great inadequacy” in the motor repairs aspect of the business and only £3lB had come from repairs to petrol-driven vehicles. There was only one letter submitted to support brand representation, which was not enough. If brand representation was being used as a head of claim, it was normal for the wholesaler to give evidence. There was nothing to warrant a licence, the application was groundless and failed considerably, the Authority said. Thomson’s application was opposed by C. E. Bailey, Ltd., Cromies Garage, Ltd., and Allan’s Garage, Ltd. The Authority granted an application, made by T. S. Nixon (Mr R. G. Blunt) for a continuous motor spirits retailer’s licence to run two pumps at his service station and garage premises at 41 Buchanan’s road, Sockburn. Sales, otherwise than through pumps, were also approved by the Authority.