§ Mr. Masonasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will list the objections registered by the United Kingdom road transport unions against the introduction of the new European Economic Community regulations relating to lorry drivers' hours and rest periods at the meeting of 30 April; what were his replies; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RidleyWhen my hon. Friend the Minister with responsibility for roads and traffic met officials of the Transport and General Workers Union on 30 April they expressed their concern that the greater flexibility incorporated in the new regulations, and the proposals to amend the provisions of the Transport Act 1968, would make enforcement more difficult and might lead to increased driver fatigue. My hon. Friend pointed out that the regulations provide for less driving time, longer rest and break periods, and greater scope for drivers to arrange their work schedules to suit their own needs.