Driving hours reviewed by government

Driving hours have been reviewed by the government in a consultation launched today by the transport minister.

The consultation covers the UK domestic drivers' hours rules, under which all van, refuse collectors, professional drivers and some bus drivers are included.

However, the consultation does not cover lorry or longer route bus drivers, who are subject to European Union rules.

Transport minister Paul Clark said: "The domestic drivers' hours rules affect thousands of workers across the UK so it is vital that they are effective in keeping drivers, passengers and other road users safe.

"This is a wide ranging consultation and we want to hear from as many drivers, operators and fleet managers as possible so that we can understand how the rules are working on the ground."

The review will not change legislation but will be used to inform future policy decisions.