Drivers’ hours
Updated 05.05.21
Drivers’ hours
FWD is lobbying for an extension of drivers’ hours until the end of June to help with driver issues some members are currently experiencing. We have been talking to Defra and the Department for Transport at a senior official level about a temporary extension and officials say there is a “reasonable chance of exten- sion”, although the bar is quite high on relaxing drivers’ hours rules due to considerations of road safety. We are also calling for drivers to be added to the Government’s Shortage Occupation List to allow drivers from the EU to come and work in the UK.
Members are reporting that the chronic shortage of drivers has created a backlog of orders as well a supplier shortages. Demand for drivers has exceeded expectation due to the easing of some lockdown measures which has created high demand in other sectors including non-essential retail alongside demand from the reopening of hospitality. Other factors include EU Exit reducing supply of drivers, IR35 regulations and the continuation of furlough.
Mandatory MOT testing is to be reintroduced from August 1 for car, motorcycle and van owners in England, Scotland and Wales. Vehicle owners with an MOT due date before August 1 will still receive a six-month exemption.
The Government has announced a temporary change in the reapplication process for drivers whose licences are due to expire or have expired since 1 January 2020. The measures include temporary removal of the routine D4 medical.
Government advice for staff in the Transport sector – this includes guidance on changing rooms and shower facilities
The government has made temporary changes to allow bus and lorry drivers who cannot complete compulsory CPC training to continue to drive.
Support for freight routes
The Government has announced a support package to keep freight flowing on routes into and across freight services to Northern Ireland, the Isle of Wight and the Scilly Isles, and the European mainland.