'Tractors aren't trucks!'

An EU proposal that could mean tractors are forced to take an NCT has been rubbished by Irish MEP Jim Higgins.The European Commission has suggested that any tractor capable of doing a speed of more than 40kmh should be subject to the vehicle test, but Mr Higgins has insisted that this would only lead to increased cost and paperwork for farmers.Speaking in the European Parliament in Brussels, Mr Higgins said he had made it clear to the EU Transport Commissioner Siim Kallas that he would oppose such a move."Tractors should not be treated as trucks. The proposal is off the wall and I will not support more red tape for farmers," said the Fine Gael MEP, pointing out that statistically, tractors are safe.Mr Higgins reassured farmers that the commission proposals are at an early stage, however, he vowed to oppose them in his role as a member of the European Parliament's Transport Committee.