Here is an amazing story. The European Parliament has voted in favour of allowing the new longer and heavier trucks (or Megatrucks as the EU calls them). The voting in the European Parliament was heavily in favour- the motion was carried by 577 votes to to 53.
Unfortunately it is not all good news. The 60 tonners will only be allowed on certain routes with each country having to give approval. Our own Government is waiting for a report on the topic and might announce this autumn whether longer and heavier trucks will be allowed. The chances are reasonable for longer trucks but both the political parties are against heavier vehicles.
Still it is good to hear that the European Parliament appreciates the importance of these vehicles in reducing congestion and pollution. It is a pity that the Parliament does not count for much. Transport Commissioner Barrot told MPs that the Commission (ie the civil service) would take a decision only after “a thorough exchange of views”