HC Deb 26 October 2001 vol 373 cc430-1W
Mr. Whittingdale

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what discussion has taken place with business about the proposed EU Physical Agents (Vibration) Directive; and if he will make a statement. (10300]

Mr. Raynsford

The Health and Safety Executive has consulted widely with business on the Physical Agents (Vibration) Directive, including with the CBI and the TUC. It has also had discussions with several industry associations and has responded to a large number of inquiries from individual businesses.

Mr. Whittingdale

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what the Government's policy is towards the EU Physical Agents (Vibration) Directive; and if he will make a statement. [10301]

Mr. Raynsford

The Government welcome the Physical Agents (Vibration) Directive and support the common position reached by the Council of Ministers on 25 June. We believe implementation of the directive will result in significant improvements in health. The Government intend to defend the common position against amendments proposed by the European Parliament which would cause significant problems for industry.