A Scottish haulage firm that had its licence revoked after it altered the speed limiters on its lorries has been granted interim authority to continue operating.

M&M Kerr, a former Scottish European haulier of the year, lost its licence after using software purchased for diagnostics to increase the fleet’s speed up to 60mph.

Traffic Commissioner Claire Gilmore said that although HGVs did not travel at over the maximum speed limit, the company had obtained a substantial commercial advantage over other operators and it had compromised road safety.

Its transport manager, Michael Kerr was disqualified for 12 months, but TC Gilmore left the door open for the haulier to reapply for a licence.

Records held by the office of the TC show that the firm, which transports meat, has now applied for an international O-licence in the same name and requested 15 HGVs to operate out of its Castle Douglas operating centre and two out of its Paisley depot.

Its designated transport manager is listed as Justin Rooke, with Michael and Michele Kerr remaining as directors.

Motor Transport understands a preliminary hearing before the traffic commissioner took place before the interim licence was granted.

It is now being decided whether a public inquiry needs to be scheduled to hear the full application.

The office of the TC was approached for comment.

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