WHOLE VEHICLE TYPE APPROVAL
Page 6
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
Government pledges to fight EC trailer plans
christopher.vvattonfarbi.co.uk THE DEPARTMENT for Transport (DfT) says it will fight the European Commission (EC) over any proposals for 4m-high trailers in the UK. following an outpouring of concern from operators and manufacturers.
Transport minister Mike Penning told CM this week that he would "negotiate strongly" with the EC on behalf of the road transport industry, following its proposal to standardise all new-build semi-trailer heights to 4m.
CM reported last week that a proposal had been sent to all trailer manufacturers in the UK by the DfT providing details that the EC was looking at restricting all semi-trailers built under Whole Vehicle Type Approval to 4m in height.
Manufacturers said that such a proposal, if it became law, would spell the end of high-roof and multi-deck trailers, while pallet networks and operators told sister title Motor Transport that the proposal would increase the volume of trucks on the road, carbon emissions and costs In response to both articles, Penning says he shares the industry's concerns over the proposal: "Any such proposal seems to go beyond the EC's remit to simplify existing legislation. We, and other [EU] member states, have made this point to the EC, which now has an opportunity to reconsider.
"Let me assure manufacturers and trailer operators that the government will negotiate strongly to achieve the best outcome for the UK," he stresses "In the meantime, we have asked UK industry for evidence on the potential impacts of the proposal to ensure that our interests are fully represented in negotiations.
The minister's comments have been welcomed by the trade associations. Andy Mair, head of engineering policy at the Freight Transport Association, says the DtT has given it a "sympathetic ear" in its submissions to the negotiations "The DfT is looking for industry feedback before 18 October. It is looking for more evidence. We are working with sonic of our supermarket members who are using double-deck trailers, as they would be significantly affected by this We hope that the EC will take another look," he adds.
Nick Deal, manager of logistics development at the Road Haulage Association, says: "To double [parcel carrier network fleets] would add massive costs, time, carbon, traffic and staff. These vehicles, like the pallet networks, are generally fully utilised in terms of space with, perhaps, 1,000 small consignments onboard one trailer." •