The RHA's continued efforts have resulted in literally hundreds of amendments being made to the original proposals. However, there are still some proposed changes that we believe cannot be justified on either safety or social grounds.

RHA Chief Executive, Roger King said: "Of course we support any initiative that improves road safety and makes the working life of the vocational driver more attractive. However, what we do not want to see is Europe tampering with existing legislation for no apparent beneficial reason.

"We accept that the industry has changed in the twenty years since the Drivers' Hours Regulations were first put in place, but why impose an even more complicated system of break and rest periods when UK truckers are already recognised as having one of the best safety records in Europe?".

With this in mind the RHA has been briefing MEP's on its concerns regarding the negative impacts of the Council Common Position on road safety, drivers' working conditions, the environment and road transport efficiency. It is hoped that these concerns will be taken into account when the issue is next debated in March.

RHA