§ Mr. Barnettasked the Minister of Transport what was the outcome of the recent discussions with the Italian authorities on the Anglo/Italian road haulage quota; and if he will make a statement.
285W
§ Mr. MulleyThe Anglo/Italian road haulage arrangement provides for a mutual waiver of licensing formalities and for a quota to be fixed limiting the number of journeys to or through each country. The arrangement came into force on 1st November 1969, and the quota originally provided for 2,400 journeys per annum by each country's hauliers together with a temporary arrangement permitting 75 journeys per month by each country's hauliers on the road/rail service.
Following the recent discussions, the Italian authorities have agreed to an increase in the general quota to 3,000 journeys per annum together with a quota of 1,200 journeys per annum on the road/ rail service. These quotas will apply during the calendar year 1970.
Her Majesty's Government remain convinced that quota systems are a hindrance to international traffic and will continue to press for their abolition.