FTA fights to stop EU red tape
Page 7

If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
THE FREIGHT TRANSPORT Association (FTA) is fighting Brussels proposals which would make it harder for potential operators to run trucks.
However, the FTA is also calling for an EC-led crackdown on a loophole that allows foreign operators to perform unlimited cabotage in this country provided it involves container work.
The FTA says an EC plan to revise the law governing access to the industry will add red tape and increase the legislative burden on operators. Instead, it suggests, member states should apply the existing rules more consistently. The EU is consulting over issues including: the need for higher standards as a barrier to entering the industry; the need for more frequent checks on operators to ensure they are up to scratch; and the need to prevent banned operators from setting up elsewhere within the EU.
The FTA points out that the existing regs are more than strong enough to exclude would-be cowboys, but a consistent EU-wide approach is necessary. It calls for greater data-sharing between the various national enforcement regimes.