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MEPS SAID: • Rest periods must be fully monitored and harmonised because penalties and implementation vary across member states.

13th December 2007
Page 37
Page 37, 13th December 2007 — MEPS SAID: • Rest periods must be fully monitored and harmonised because penalties and implementation vary across member states.
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Which of the following most accurately describes the problem?

• An electronic pass could allow drivers greater ease in crossing the borders.

• More flexibility could allow operators to collect a part load before unloading completely. However, while discouraging empty trucks, abuse must also be avoided. One MEP said: "If a driver from Eastern Europe crosses the border with three crates of tomatoes and then drives around for a week with small loads, that is abuse."

• Quick loading and unloading at specific areas should not mean drivers without proper training find themselves transporting hazardous goods.

• Enforcement should be harmonised. One UK MEP received complaints that UK police are too zealous; others believe some countries do not enforce the regulations.

• Enforcement should deal with serious infringements — those who operate in the grey area — instead of concentrating on parking offences.

• One MEP said: "The proposal is well balanced since it refers to one week. You can cross Russia in a week... you can do a 101 of cabotage in seven days."

• A completely free market has not yet been achieved so transition rules are necessary.

• The approach is right because it means fewer vehicles will be running empty.

• Freight sharing, an idea that has come from industry, could allow drivers to load on their way home.

• Rapporteur (sponsor) Mathieu Grosch summed up the debate: "It seems everyone thinks we are going in the right direction."

Tags

Organisations: UK MEP, UK police
People: Mathieu Grosch

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