ESC: implementation of French minimum wage rule unacceptable
The European Shippers’ Council (ESC) fears chaos as a result of the implementation of the French rules on minimum wages. Starting July 1st all foreign transport workers visiting France should carry documents to prove that they are paid according to the French legislation.
Representing the logistic interests of manufacturers, retailers and wholesalers, collectively referred to as shippers, the ESC welcomes the announcement of the Commission to start an infringement procedure against France (as it earlier started in a similar case against Germany). Free traffic of services and goods is one of the most important principles in the EU which should not be undermined by disproportional national legislation.
The implementation process is more specifically a concern for the ESC. A couple of weeks before the entry into force there is no clarity at all about the administrative arrangements, such as the documents to be carried). Hauliers and shippers run the risk of being punished for infringement of rules they could not properly prepare for. A postponement until conclusions of the Commission become public would at least give shippers and hauliers a chance to prepare properly for this French national legislation.