FUTURE LEGISLATION
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• MoT testing: A bill to give practical effect to the computerisation of the MoT testing scheme for cars and light vans is before the House of Lords.
• ABS braking systems: EU directive requirements to extend the use of ABS systems to all vehicles larger than cars and car-derived vans will be subject to national consultation later this year.
• Undernm protection: The European Commission has published proposals for the fitting of underrun bumpers to new vehicles exceeding 3.5 tonnes OVVI.
• Second-generation tachographs: A framework regulation was approved by EU ministers in 1998. Technical specification and operational requirements are being finalised and agreed by member states. Introduction in new vehicles could begin early in 2002.
• Working Time Directive: Application of the rules to the road transport sector is still under discussion. No agreement yet on specific rules for drivers, but social affairs ministers have agreed to apply the main directive to exclude non-mobile employees.
• Bus stop parking: The DOT is inviting comments on proposals giVing local authorities greater powers to ban the loading and unloading of vehicles at bus stops. Restrictions would operate 24 hours a day, instead of from 07:00hrs.
• Prohibition of asbestos in brake linings: The DOT has issued papers seeking views on proposed new regulations on specifications for road vehicle brake linings.
• Animal transport: Further restrictions on the transport of animals are proposed in a new animal welfare consultation. Activities previously exempted from WAR) are likely to be included.