SWINE INFLUENZA AND TRANSPORT WORKERS

That this House believes transport workers may be at increased risk of infection from swine influenza as they are often in close contact with the public in confined places such as on trains, buses, ferries and planes; further believes any pandemic and consequential staff shortages could have a devastating impact on the provision of safe transport and the movement of essential goods and foodstuffs; notes reports that discussions have taken place between the Government and emergency services on the impact of swine influenza on transport services and on the production of guidelines for employers; further believes it is essential that the Government ensures that trade unions are fully involved and consulted; and calls on employers to suspend sickness absence policies until the threat of swine influenza has passed.