§ Mr. Randallasked the Secretary of State for Transport what action he is taking to protect the road haulage industry from the effects of the French road blockade.
§ Mrs. ChalkerWe are in continuous contact with the French Government. My right hon. Friend has spoken to the French Minister of Transport. We attach the highest importance to the removal of obstacles to the free movement of goods by road, including those at the root of the present action.
§ Mr. Teddy Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Transport what information he has on the extent of the losses being sustained by British transport organisations whose lorries are trapped in consequence of the disruptive action by French lorry drivers; and what guidance he can give to such firms about action they can take to obtain compensation for the business losses involved.
§ Mr. RidleyIt is too early to assess the extent of these losses. The Government will support claims for compensation made by United Kingdom firms to the French authorities.