The two leading haulage associations have announced their requirements of the new Conservative government.
The RHA and FTA have both reiterated their positions in regards to the future of the road haulage industry with statements aimed at the new government.
Both the RHA and FTA published their own manifestos which coincided with the election. You can read their manifestos at the links below.
RHA Manifesto
FTA Manifesto
RHA chief executive, Richard Burnett, expressed that the RHA were delighted that the next administration will be a majority government, going on to say:
“With one party forming a government we look forward to forging clearer and closer relationships with ministers and officials. In December 2014 George Osborne recognised the acute nature of the driver shortage and confirmed his understanding of the problem during an election campaign visit to an RHA member.
Without the targeted funding that is so desperately needed to alleviate this major issue, the future of the UK haulage industry will be seriously compromised and the subsequent effects on the economy unthinkable. We now demand that the new Government puts its money where its mouth is and puts the issue at the top of its priority list.’’
“The new government must also recognise, in its policies and actions, that the road transport industry is an essential enabler of growth and the job creation needed to eliminate the public spending deficit. It must support the industry, and therefore the UK economy, with appropriate tax policies, road investment and regulation.
We still have by far the highest level of fuel duty in the EU. It is a heavy tax on business, pushes up the price of everything we buy, undermines competitiveness and holds back our haulage industry. It must not be increased in this parliament. Our congested roads desperately need investment and the current spending plan for England is the minimum level needed to sustain the economy.”
Karen Dee, FTA Director of Policy said the following in regards to the new government:
“Mr Cameron’s new Government needs to ensure that logistics is given the attention it deserves. Its policies must ensure the industry can be as efficient and effective as possible in support of businesses and consumers in the UK. FTA is the leading trade association representing the operators and customers of all modes of freight transport, road, rail, water and air. Our objective is to ensure that the UK has a safe, efficient and sustainable supply chain, and we sincerely hope that the new Government will support us in these goals.”
Let’s see how this government approaches the current issues within the road haulage industry, only time will tell whether this government have the best interests of the UK haulage industry at heart.