§ Mr. PlaskittTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to ensure that employers reduce to an acceptable level risks posed to the health and safety of employees using public roads while at work. [48748]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonThe Road Traffic and related Acts provide the legal framework for driving on Britain's roads. All drivers, including those who drive as part of their employment, are obliged to obey these laws.
The safety of company car drivers (as distinct from people whose job is specifically driving related e.g. HGV and bus drivers) is of concern. We believe the best way forward is for employers to foster working practices which encourage responsible driving. We have supported 582W the work of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents in producing its guidance document "Managing Occupational Road Risk" published earlier this year, to help organisations to develop an effective management approach. We will continue to encourage employers to adopt such an approach, which could have wider benefits in addition to road safety.