DAM worrying
Page 24
Page 25
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
It has been reported that the Vehicle Inspectorate has warned some road haulage companies about using "cheaper eastern European drivers" on UK soil. The Drivers Action Movement believes that this signals the beginning of what may become a disturbing trend in the British road haulage industry
With profit margins increasingly squeezed within the industry, the temptation to make considerable savings by employing non-EUregistered drivers is clear for all to see.
DAM intends to campaign on this matter wherever possible—below is a summary of the issues DAM believes to be of concern if this practice is allowed to continue:
1. Are these non-EU drivers carrying hazardous cargoes without the necessary APR qualifications?
2. What are the precise insurance implications of employing declared or undeclared non-EU drivers?
3. Are these non-EU drivers paying national insurance and UK income tax?
4. If prosecuted for road traffic offences, would endorsements and penalty points on a non-EU driving licence be subject to the totting up process?
5. Are these non-EU drivers covered by UK employment legislation? 6. Do these non-EU drivers have a permanent, and thus contactable, UK address? If not, how are they traceable?
7. Do these non-EU drivers meet all the medical requirements contained in Medical Aspects of Fitness to Drive, including eyesight, epilepsy and diabetes? If these drivers are over 45 years of age, is there any requirement for them to undergo and pass HGV medicals—as UK drivers must?
8. Do these non-EU drivers possess valid HGV licences from their countries of origin—and are they in their own names?
9. What is the time limit on a non-EU visitor's visa?
10. What about the undercutting of British drivers' rates of pay?
11. In the event of an incident/accident, isn't the language barrier a real cause for concern?
12. Should we assume that these drivers are familiar with UK legislation on vehicle weights, drivers; hours etc?
We would welcome your readers' suggestions and involvement. Contact DAM chairman R Chorley at 47 Hanover Court, Bury New Road, Salford M7 OFD; phone, 0161 792 2048. Jack A Crossfield, Secretary, Drivers Action Movement.