DIGITAL TACHOS - 'COMPLETE FARCE'
EU regulations require the fitment of digital tachos to all new trucks
sold after 5 August this year.
But:
Type approval process, of the digital tachographs, means that no units
will be available on the market until the autumn of 2005!
EU is considering a 'gentlemen's agreement' not to enforce the new digital
tachograph regulations until the equipment is readily available.
FTA Policy Director, James Hookham:
'The FTA will be looking to the UK Department for Transport to indemnify
operators against possible prosecutions. We have very strong concerns
about the course of action recommended by the EU - it is not the way
to enforce and manage important safety legislation.'
'With no type-approved
digital tachograph expected before the summer but the rules due to
come into force from August, member states may agree
not to actually enforce them from this date.
However, whether or not
the courts and Police chose to do so or not is an unknown quantity and
unfortunately there are plenty of precedents of legislation being tested
in court, at members' expense.
|
The Freight Transport Association has
welcomed the decriminalisation of the London Lorry Ban, but is concerned
that it may result in a significant rise in the number of Penalty Charge
Notices being issued.
London, the dynamic, full time capital city, is currently serviced by the part-time,
London Lorry Control Scheme. |
