§ Mr. Andrew SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what representations have been made to the Greek Government in respect of providing(a) protection, (b) freedom of movement and (c) compensation to British drivers. [9423]
§ Mr. WattsThe British ambassador in Athens saw the Greek Minister of the Interior on 11 December when he asked that British drivers be given all support and protection. The following day my noble Friend the Minister for Aviation and Shipping spoke in Brussels to the Greek Transport Minister about the position of trapped British drivers and compensation. I am pleased to say that almost all the British drivers known to have been detained in Greece are now clear of the blockades.
§ Mr. SmithTo as the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what discussions have taken place at the Council of Ministers regarding the issue of compensation claims from British lorry drivers who were delayed by the French lorry drivers' dispute; [9421]
(2) what discussions have taken place at the Council of Ministers regarding the issue of British lorry drivers currently delayed in Greece. [9422]
§ Mr. WattsThe blockades of lorries in both France and Greece were discussed at the Transport Council last week. The French and Greek Transport Ministers both responded positively. The French Minister repeated the assurances she had previously given to my right hon. Friend that claims for compensation will be considered as quickly as possible.