The deputy traffic commissioner for the South East, DTC John Baker, has accepted that a failure by an operator to include a director on its licence application was a simple error and not an attempt to hide his involvement in the business. He was satisfied that Croydon haulier Deadcert Recovery had the correct policies in place, PMIs were taking place at the correct intervals and daily walk round checks were being conducted and so no further action should be taken against the firm.
The operator appeared at an Eastbourne public inquiry after it became apparent Gary Newman was a director at the company despite his name not being added to licence documents. Newman has also been director of Deadcert (UK), which had its licence revoked in April 2026 after it failed to respond to requests for information from the TC.
Documentation produced for the public inquiry appeared to be more acceptable and compliance levels maintained. The DTC noted from the previous decision to tarnish Mr Gambling’s repute in 2021, his repute can be retained and will remain as severely tarnished.
Further information:
https://www.commercialmotor.com/legal-news/article/repute-retained-but-remains-severely-tarnished