TGWU conference votes on hours cut
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• The Transport & General Workers Union was asked to push for shorter working hours for LGV and PCV drivers at its biennial conference in Blackpool this week. Delegates were also asked to campaign for longer rest periods and a reduction in the daily spreadover periods.
Lorry drivers may currently drive for a maximum of nine hours a day — but they can work a maximum of 15 hours a day under present daily rest period rules. A motion due to be discussed as CM went to press warned: "A large number of road traffic accidents are the result of those who earn their living driving, working excessive hours."
It also called for statutory holiday provisions to be included in any future EC directive on drivers hours.
Another motion called for a system of routes dedicated to the transportation of hazardous substances.
Following the recent convictions against OB Transport, delegates demanded an urgent review of legislation on the carriage of hazardous substances on flatbed vehicles.
El Launching a new TGWU document, Transport Matters, general-secretary elect Bill Morris emphasised the union's opposition to road pricing, slamming it as "an intellectual solution to a practical problem".