HC Deb 13 May 1970 vol 801 cc1226-8
19. Mr. Buchanan-Smith

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what assessment he has now made of the effect on livestock haulage of the restriction on drivers' hours as a result of the Transport Act, 1968; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Mackie

As the hon. Member will know, the regulations provide concessions in respect of the haulage of livestock. As I said in my reply to the hon. Member on 15th April, we have received only one representation about the difficulties arising in England and Wales.—[Vol. 799, c.239]

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

But would the hon. Gentleman please appreciate that the farming industry, on top of the extra costs which the Transport Act has brought, is suffering considerable inconvenience through the working of that Act in relation to hours, which in some cases causes suffering to animals? Would he consider this urgently and recommend the Minister of Transport to give exemption on hours for livestock haulage similar to that enjoyed already by fish traffic?

Mr. Mackie

I am aware that the Minister of Transport and the Secretary of State for Scotland have received representations about this which are being studied. There are some concessions to livestock transport which help.

Mr. Godber

Would the hon. Gentleman please make special representations to the Ministry of Transport? Is he aware that the animal welfare societies are becoming increasingly concerned about the hardship, pain and suffering being caused to animals because of the difficulties imposed by the Act? Would he get together with the Ministry of Transport to try to solve this problem?

Mr. Mackie

I will certainly look into that point.

Mr. Wellbeloved

Can my hon. Friend give any information about the payment of wages to transport workers who are not working this week because of the irresponsible ban by the farmers on the movement of livestock to market?

Mr. Mackie

That is a question for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport.

27. Mr. Monro

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what discussions he has had this year with the agricultural industry relating to the haulage of livestock to and from auction markets.

Mr. Mackie

None, Sir. My right hon. Friend has not been asked for any.

Mr. Monro

The key point is the time that transport drivers spend waiting at an auction mart. Is it included in the working day or not?

Mr. Mackie

It depends on the waiting time. In general, drivers of goods vehicles are restricted to 10 hours' driving time out of an 11-hour working day. Some relaxation has been allowed for work in connection with the carrying of animals. The daily duty can be spread over 14 hours provided that the actual on-duty time, including waiting time, is limited to 10 hours. Any time waiting in marts could be included in the 14.

Mr. W. Baxter

Will my hon. Friend give this matter further consideration? It is causing consternation in many of the marts in Scotland where it is necessary to hold stock over to the following day. A slight adjustment here could be beneficial not only to farmers but also to haulage contractors without doing anyone real harm.

Mr. Mackie

As I have said, my right hon. Friends the Minister of Transport and the Secretary of State for Scotland are discussing this matter with the Scottish N.F.U.