EC is prepared to attack ferry rates
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by Karen Miles • The prospect of legal action to protect hauliers from ferry companies is increasing as it emerges that the EC is preparing to punish some for alleged price fixing on freight.
Although the EC Commission refuses to comment, it appears that it is about to launch the first stage of an attack known as a statement of objection. There is mounting evidence that at least some of the ferry companies broke Community law last October.
The Commission action follows scrutiny of the activities at the time of P&O European Ferries, Stena Sealink. Sally Line, Brittany Ferries at Roscoff and Truckline.
They imliosed freight surcharges of up to 10%, with Stena Sealink saying it acted first with the others following because of financial pressure.
If any ferry operators accused of breaking the law are unable to refute the charges they will be fined large sums by the EC. This would also leave hauliers free to claim refunds for the surcharges.
Iris thought that the EC's findings result from correspondence with the five companies after a swoop on premises which netted a large volume of documents. It is also believed that not all of the companies have yet responded to the EC's enquiries.
The ferry companies have declined to comment until the results of the investigation are known.
They blamed the devaluation of the pound for the charges, which were imposed on operators paying in Sterling.