“Road users are voters too” says RHA
Road transport is often described as the lifeblood of the UK economy yet political parties large and small have had very little to say on the subject during this election campaign.
Have they forgotten that road users are voters too? At this critical time of economic recovery, the future prosperity of this country is more reliant than ever before on a strong transport industry. We currently face high fuel prices as a result of high oil prices, weak sterling and high duty levels – all issues that the next Government will have to address.
Labour’s position on fuel duty is clear: regular ‘real terms’ increases across the board, and the only other comment on roads in their manifesto says that, “Tackling road congestion is a key Labour priority.” In their manifesto, the Conservatives have said that they will ‘consult’ on the introduction of a ‘Fair Fuel Stabiliser’ that would cut fuel duty when oil prices rise, and vice versa, though it is unclear at what level the price will be set, and they would fund new road capacity through tolls. The only acknowledgement of the haulage industry from the Liberal Democrats is that HGVs would be charged to raise revenue to fund high-speed rail links. And to add insult to injury, the party’s plans for re-opening closed rail lines and adding extra tracks will be paid for “by cutting the major roads budget”. Far from confidence-inspiring for the road user.
“Improving the effectiveness of road freight must be given the political priority it deserves”, said RHA Chief Executive Geoff Dunning. “Without efficient haulage, economic recovery for this country will be delayed. Road users should therefore look carefully at the widely differing manifesto commitments before committing their votes.”
Road Haulage Association – phone us first
For more details, contact RHA Head of Media Relations, Kate Gibbs on:
Tel: +44 (0) 1932 838917
Mob: + 44 (0) 7979 531451
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