Against the backdrop of considerable financial pressures in the industry, the RHA is advocating for stability, long-term growth, and targeted support.
Notably, the association highlights a nearly 10% rise in the operating costs of a 44-tonne HGV last year, contributing to financial strain and the closure of over 450 haulage firms amid falling freight volumes.
Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director, emphasises the urgency of the situation:
“We urge the Government to focus on stability, long-term growth, and targeted support to tackle the major challenges currently facing the road transport industry and ease the suffocating cost pressures on operators.”
To achieve this, the RHA is proposing a multi-pronged approach, advocating for eight key measures:
- fuel duty freeze and maintaining the 5p cut,
- temporary suspension of Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) on HGVs and the HGV Levy,
- emissions-linked rebate on fuel duty for alternative fuels,
- essential user rebate on fuel duty for commercial operators,
- business rates reform for transport businesses operating warehouses,
- assistance for businesses facing higher interest rates by extending full expensing to vehicle leasing costs,
- reduction in insurance premium tax,
- increased funding for heavy vehicle mechanic apprenticeships.
The RHA’s plea extends beyond immediate financial relief. They also call for improved infrastructure, including streamlined planning permission for lorry parking facilities, ring-fenced funding for designated lorry parking by local authorities, and a cross-departmental effort to enhance driver facilities nationwide.
Furthermore, the association highlights the need for a smooth transition to low-carbon technologies, advocating for fiscal incentives for adopting low-carbon fuels, realistic timelines for green vehicle technologies, investment in suitable infrastructure, and a balanced approach to Clean Air Zones.