European governments attempt to aid hauliers

European governments yesterday took steps on Tuesday 13th September to help hard-hit businesses such as truckers and farmers.

French President Jacques Chirac asked for cuts in the cost of fuel at the pump from oil giants like Total and BP.
Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin announced tax breaks of €30 million for farmers a day after isolated protests on Monday (September 12th) by farmers on bicycles and truck drivers.

British finance minister Gordon Brown called on the Organisation of Export Petroleum Countries (OPEC) to quickly increase output.
British hauliers have threatened to strike from Wednesday (September 14th) though some British truck drivers have been put off by the risk of police confiscating driving licences.

Consumer price indices across Europe on Tuesday showed high energy costs.
Brown warned against unions seeking big pay rises at a time of hesitant economic growth in Europe.