Rules relaxed for de-icer drivers

Freezing conditions has raised demand for runway de-icing fluid

European working time regulations have been relaxed for hauliers transporting anti-freeze to airports.

The rules prohibit lorry drivers from working more than 90 hours in a fortnight.

Now drivers will be able to work for 10 hours in every 24, instead of only nine.

Earlier the SNP MP for Moray, Angus Robertson, said deliveries had been delayed because drivers were having to park to comply with the restrictions.

Inglis Lyon of Highlands and Islands Airports (HIA) said hundreds of thousands of litres of de-icer were being used to keep runways clear.

Mr Lyon, managing director at HIA, said stocks at Campbeltown and Islay airports had been running low but had since been replenished.

But he said keeping airports well stocked was a national problem with higher demand because of the prolonged spell of freezing temperatures.

Mr Lyon said: "With disruption to rail, road and air travel in the southern part of the country it is vital this is addressed and flexibility given."