The Road Haulage Association has called on political parties to put road freight at the heart of transport policy making ahead of the general election.

The Association in its election manifesto document has highlighted five key areas which must be addressed to keep the economy moving:

Transition to net zero
Skills shortage
Infrastructure investment – roads and lorry parking
Fuel duty
Brexit
RHA chief executive, Richard Burnett said he will continue working closely with government to tackle the industry’s major issues as it faces huge challenges to stay competitive.

The economy needs a modern, efficient road network to get goods from A to B as quickly as possible. He called on the new government to match that ambition with sufficient investment which also improves facilities for lorry drivers making those vital journeys.

On fuel duty which is still the highest in Europe, he said: “An essential user rebate of around 15 pence per litre to bring the UK into line with Germany would reduce operating costs and make British firms more attractive in the domestic and international markets.”

A new government must make pragmatic plans to achieve net zero carbon targets which meet the needs of people and businesses. He called for a review into the ‘ill-considered’ DEFRA Clean Air Zone Framework which sees hauliers hit with £100 daily charges for delivering into city centres.

Reforming the Apprenticeship Levy is key to attracting new people into the sector as it faces a driver shortage of 60,000. Approved apprenticeship standards don’t match the needs of haulage firms, nor do they cover the cost of training drivers.

On Brexit he reiterated the RHA’s long-standing call for a deal and transition period.

“Firms breathed a sigh of relief that a damaging ‘no-deal’ was averted last month but the uncertainty continues. The new government must do everything it can to get business ready for the UK’s departure.”

Road Haulage Association

About the Author: John Loughran