§ Mr. Speedasked the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what discussions he has recently had with European Economic Community Transport Ministers about public service vehicle drivers' hours enforcement; and what has been the result;
(2) if he is now satisfied that all European Economic Community countries are rigorously enforcing the public service vehicle drivers' hours regulations on international coach journeys.
§ Mr. RidleyThe European Commission has recently tabled a draft Council recommendation suggesting minimum levels of enforcement with a view to achieving some uniformity. At the Transport Council on 10 May Ministers instructed the Committee of Permanent Representatives to bring forward, by the end of this year, firm proposals. Much in the Commission's draft is in line with United Kingdom practice and is therefore welcome.
§ Mr. Speedasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will seek to bar entry into and operation within, the United Kingdom, of coach companies from the European Economic Community who do not comply with public service vehicle drivers' hours regulations.
§ Mr. RidleyMy Department is conducting an extensive programme of international coach checks including checks at the Kent ports. Those coaches where the driver is found to be in breach of the drivers' hours regulations will be prohibited from continuing their journeys.