Continental hire rejected by EC
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• Plans that would have allowed operators to hire trucks in European countries, other than where they are based, have been rejected by the transport section of the European Commission.
The proposal, which would have allowed operators to hire in a tractor unit in the event of a problem such as a breakdown, was supported by the British to provide greater flexibility for operators.
But when the proposal, which would have put in place restrictions such as limited rental periods, was discussed last month, it was turned down because the rates of Vehicle Excise Duty could not be agreed, Stuart Butterworth, director of Clwydbased international operator TDS Morgan Freight, says the changes would have been useful in some circumstances. "Like most hauliers, we are on tight deadlines," he says. "In the event of a serious breakdown hiring in a vehicle would get the job done and keep the customer happy."