Is an “outside” transport manager meant actually to spend 8 hours per week on a 1-2 vehicle o-licence. Or is he just meant to ensure that he is available for those 8 hours if needed. How often does your TM visit you or your o-centre in person?
The wording from the TC is that the TM should devote X amount of hours per vehicle per week.
good luck to any TM who can do that remotely.
For me, if I was being paid as an external TM I would be at the operation for the amount of hours specified each week without fail (barring manflu and funerals)