HC Deb 01 February 1978 vol 943 cc433-4
4. Mr. Fry

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what advice he has given to the passenger and freight transport industries on the enforcement of the EEC regulations on distances driven; and if he will make a statement.

12. Mr. Shepherd

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what recent advice he has given to the road haulage industry on the implementation of EEC drivers' hours and distances regulations.

Mr. William Rodgers

I have nothing to add to my reply to the hon. Member for Sutton Coldfield (Mr. Fowler) on 11th January, except to say that I am issuing this week a leaflet giving what I hope is helpful guidance.

Mr. Fry

Is the Minister aware that the advice given to operators is that, if in the first six months they break the distance limit, there will be no prosecutions but that, on the other hand, if they break any other of the provisions, those infringements could be taken into consideration? Does he not regard this situation as unsatisfactory in regard to the distance limit, and will he think again about the matter of prosecution?

Mr. Rodgers

Later today we are discussing these matters. Some are so complex and important to the industry that I am hesitant to give a quick reply, which may lead to misunderstanding elsewhere. I believe that there should be a running-in period in respect of the regulations. We understand that people are feeling their way in this matter and are becoming accustomed to the new regulations, which will have to operate fully in due course.

Mr. Shepherd

I appreciate the considerations that the right hon. Gentleman outlines, but will he confirm that the concept of education and not enforcement is concurred with in the Home Office and among the police authorities?

Mr. Rodgers

It is a well understood principle and it is not being operated for the first time. Previous changes in drivers' hours caused difficulties of this nature. All the authorities recognise the problem and are prepared to safeguard against it.

Mr. John Evans

Will my right hon. Friend confirm that the EEC regulations have been in operation since 1969 and that when the Conservatives negotiated for the United Kingdom to join the Common Market they did not endeavour to alter those regulations? Therefore, is it not a little odd that they should now come to the House and complain about them?

Mr. Rodgers

These regulations were inherited when we joined the Community and everybody recognises that they provide us with a considerable problem. Fortunately, there was a transitional period of five years, and we have now been able to negotiate a phased implementation. However, I do not underestimate the difficulties involved and we must try to sort them out.

Several Hon. Members

rose—

Mr. Speaker

Order. This matter can be debated tonight.