Local Euro MP joins HGV check at Hull docks (Diana Wallis MEP)

Diana Wallis MEP <info@dianawallismep.org.uk>

Local Euro MP joins HGV check at Hull docks

August 22, 2006 11:17 AM

Diana Wallis MEP at Hull docks Local Euro MP Diana Wallis today joined inspection staff from the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) at Hull docks to observe their checks on lorries and drivers on international journeys.

As part of a partnership agreement between VOSA and the Highways Agency, a pilot targeting Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) on international journeys was launched in the South East in July. Diana Wallis, MEP for Yorkshire & the Humber, heard about the campaign and was inspired to investigate what is being done to combat the problem in her constituency.

Diana Wallis said:

"I have had a number of constituents complain about foreign lorries and their drivers. There seems to be a perception that not enough is being done both to apprehend those flouting the rules and also that there is difficulty in enforcing the fines and other penalties if these drivers come from abroad.

"Given Hull's importance as the gateway to northern England and beyond for many of these lorries, it was an ideal location to witness the checks in full force.

"I was glad to see firsthand that the authorities are doing a great deal to make our roads safer. Legislation is coming from both Brussels and Westminster which is hopefully going to make this process easier."

The results of the July launch of this high profile campaign, which took place in Kent and was overseen by Minister of State for Transport Dr Stephen Ladyman, emphasised just why these checks are so important. Of the 63 vehicles that were stopped during the launch, 41 received mechanical prohibitions, 23 of which were delayed while 18 were immediate (brakes and tyres were most at fault). Also, 44 drivers were checked for drivers' hours, with 12 receiving drivers' hours prohibitions and two further prohibitions being issued for other offences.

Background info on the International Transport Pilot

Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) and Highways Agency (HA) are targeting HGVs on international journeys around the UK in order to combat the problems that are associated with these vehicles, including road safety, road wear and congestion.

The aim is to enhance VOSA's enforcement capability and effectiveness, thereby reducing levels of offending (particularly drivers' hours, overloading and roadworthiness) and to measure the effect that this has on the number of non-recurrent congestion incidents caused by HGVs in the area. Ultimately these activities will assist in making UK roads safer and help with the flow of traffic, therefore reducing journey times.