Written question asked by David Lidington (Conservative) on Wednesday, 23 June 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 30 June 2004. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Basildon (Labour) on Wednesday, 30 June 2004 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what representations he has made to (a) the European Commission and (b) the governments of other member states for special consideration to be given to hauliers and other business drivers from Northern Ireland who have been unable (i) to obtain an MOT certificate and (ii) to tax their vehicles as a result of the current industrial action of civil servants.

Answer: Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what representations he has made to (a) the European Commission and (b) the Governments of other member states for special consideration to be given to hauliers and other business drivers from Northern Ireland who have been unable (i) to obtain an MOT certificate and (ii) to tax their vehicles as a result of the current industrial action of civil servants. [180800] Angela Smith: The certificates of temporary exemption that are now being issued for goods vehicles exempt owners and operators from the requirement to have their vehicles tested for a three-month period from the date of issue. The certificates do not alter their responsibility to maintain their vehicles in a roadworthy condition. The Department for Transport, which has overall responsibility for vehicle licensing in the UK, has written to the European Commission to make them aware of the current difficulties in Northern Ireland.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 423 c318W; 180800
Session: 2003-04
Subjects: Civil servants Industrial disputes Excise duties Large goods vehicles Motor vehicles Northern Ireland Testing
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk