MEP Margarita de la Pisa Carrión, on behalf of the Patriots for Europe (PfE) Group, has submitted a parliamentary question to the European Commission highlighting the difficult working conditions of lorry drivers in Spain and calling for EU action on rest periods, funding, and support for conventional fuel vehicles.
The question, tabled on 11 May 2026, draws on findings from a 2025 mission of Parliament's Committee on Transport and Tourism to Aragon, which identified labour shortages, poor working conditions, limited appeal to new generations, and inadequate road and rail infrastructure. The MEP also points to increased costs and reduced vehicle autonomy linked to the Green Deal, as well as insufficient investment in Aragon.
Concrete asks and policy direction
The question contains five specific requests. First, it asks whether the Commission is aware of the situation in Spain and potentially other Member States. Second, it requests an analysis of the sector in the coming months. Third, it asks the Commission to consider warrants for road transport operators to use and purchase new-generation conventional fuel vehicles, arguing they are less polluting than older models but more autonomous and cost-effective than electric lorries. Fourth, it calls for a revision of current rest period regulations under Regulation (EEC) No 3820/85 and Spanish legislation, which the MEP says hamper flexibility and force drivers to work in difficult temperatures without adequate recovery places. Fifth, it inquires about EU funding for the lorry sector and transport infrastructure in Aragon.
Stakeholders impacted
The question primarily affects lorry drivers in Spain and potentially across the EU, who face poor working conditions and regulatory inflexibility. Road transport operators would benefit from any relaxation of rest rules or support for conventional fuel vehicles. EU and national regulators would need to consider revisions to rest period rules and funding allocations. Environmental groups may oppose the push for conventional fuel vehicles, which could slow the transition to zero-emission transport.
Expected follow-up
The Commission is required to respond within approximately six weeks, by 12 August 2026. Its answer will signal whether it plans to analyse the sector, revise rest period rules, or support conventional fuel vehicles, and will indicate the level of EU funding available for transport in Aragon.
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