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Hours rules relaxed to clear FMD backlog
Page 13
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Drivers' hours rules are relaxed to help clear the backlog of animals to be transported after the foot and mouth outbreak. David Harris reports.
THE DEPARTMENT for Transport (MT) last week relaxed the restrictions on drivers' hours rules to combat the backlog caused by the foot and mouth outbreak.
The relaxation of the restrictions, which has been welcomed by hauliers' associations, will allow more movement of animals outside the main foot and mouth risk areas, which will help to clear the backlog of healthy animals stranded by the outbreaks.
The Road Haulage Association says it is"disappointed that the Df took so long to do the obvious but it is no less welcome".
Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly says: "This is an important time for farmers and livestock owners. Therefore, after careful consideration, when movements to livestock markets are permitted in low-risk areas we will be relaxing the rules governing drivers' hours." The relaxation means that drivers will have a daily driving limit of 10 hours instead of nine; a weekly rest period of 24 hours, instead of 45; and no weekly or fortnightly driving time limits (currently 56 and 90 hours).
Total permitted working time when a driver is at work rather than just driving — is being increased by 10% from 60 to 66 hours.
Information on the foot and mouth risk areas and low-risk areas is available on the Defra website at www.defra.gov.uk/footandmouth/