HC Deb 27 October 1976 vol 918 cc466-7
28. Mr. Fox

asked the Secretary of State for Transport whether he will make a statement on implementation of EEC regulations on drivers' hours.

Mr. Horum

Application within the United Kingdom of EEC Regulation 543/69, which is the one that the hon. Member referred to, has been deferred until 1st March 1977. My aim is to postpone implementation until an amended regulation, including suitable transitional arrangements, has been agreed.

Mr. Fox

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that I welcome what he said about delay? May we have an assurance that the Ministers who take part in these negotiations will be as robust as possible to ensure the maximum flexibility for member States in these matters?

Mr. Horam

I may be rather pale and not very tall, but I am fairly robust.

Mr. Marten

Why do we need these regulations?

Mr. Horam

They flow from the assent which this House gave in 1972 to Common Market entry. We and Opposition Members accepted the position then.