Mr. S. James A. Hillasked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what discussions are taking place between his Department, the Freight Transport Association, trade unions and interested parties on the resolution of the European Parliament asking the Commission to lay down general principles for harmonising the training of professional drivers of road transport vehicles;
(2) what discussions are taking place between the Department of Trade and Industry, British Transport Docks Board, trade unions and other interested parties concerned with the major ports in the United Kingdom in preparation for a ports policy within the framework of the European Community based on the Document 10/72 and included in the minutes of the Official Journal of the European Communities C46 of 9th May 1972; and
(3) what discussions are taking place between the Department of Trade and Industry and British Rail on the resolution of the European Parliament which expresses concern at the deficits recorded by railways in the EEC in their consequence for the transport industry, the Common transport policy, clear accounting and the general economy of the member States.
§ Mr. PeytonI am writing to my hon. Friend.