asked the Secretary of State for Transport if, in view of the widespread flouting of its provisions, he is satisfied that European Economic Community regulation No. 553/69, which establishes work-rest schedules for heavy goods vehicle drivers, permits viable commercial operations.

I believe that in general the EC social hours regulation 543/69 provides a reasonable basis for commercial road haulage operations, but I am aware that it may cause difficulties in certain circumstances. I hope that the Commission's current review of the Regulation will lead to new proposals that will allow greater flexibility in dealing wth these circumstances, while not detracting from the overall objectives of securing improved road safety and fair competition.

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he is satisfied that European Economic Community regulation No. 553/69 is satisfactory from the health and safety point of view in establishing adequate rest periods for British heavy goods vehicle drivers in all situations.

I am satisfied that the provisions of regulation EC 543/69 and of the Transport Act 1968 provide adequate safeguards for drivers and other road users.