Welsh hauliers have warned that the potential increase of 7p per litre in fuel duty could have a catastrophic impact on their operations.
- Gathering at the Welsh Parliament, operators urged the retention of the existing fuel duty freeze ahead of the upcoming Budget announcement.
- Concerns were raised about the possible reversal of a 14-year-old policy that could accelerate business failures within the sector.
- The AA highlighted that removing the fuel duty freeze could push consumer prices higher, affecting everything from groceries to social care.
- Discussions also covered other pressing industry issues like driver facilities and the need for better roadside infrastructure.
At a recent meeting in the Welsh Parliament, representatives of the haulage industry expressed significant concerns regarding a proposed 7p increase in fuel duty. The operators implored that maintaining the current duty freeze is vital to their survival, considering the volatility of the market and rising operational costs, they declared.
Michael Gough, a board director for Wales at the Road Haulage Association (RHA), emphasised, “I urge all members of this Senedd to speak to the Treasury at Westminster to keep the freeze on fuel duty. A rise would only speed up business failures.” His statement underscores the urgency felt within the industry about potential financial burdens that could result from such an increase.
According to reports, the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, is considering reversing the longstanding policy of fuel duty freeze, prompting industry insiders to caution against the repercussions. The AA’s president, Edmund King, stated, “Everything from the price of food in supermarkets to the delivery of social care within our communities are impacted by pump prices, and an unnecessary hike in fuel duty could make things worse.” The potential to drive inflation further is a significant concern shared by many within the sector.
During the RHA’s Senedd reception, hauliers were afforded the opportunity to discuss critical issues with government representatives. Key among the topics were the inadequate driver facilities and the pressing need for road investments, which are crucial to the sustainability and efficiency of transport operations.
Shadow Minister for Transport, Natasha Asghar, assured that she would advocate for the expansion of secure lorry parking and improved roadside amenities. This initiative not only aims to enhance working conditions for drivers but also seeks to encourage more women to join the profession, addressing gender imbalances in the industry.
The proposed increase in fuel duty remains a contentious issue, posing a significant threat to the operational viability of Welsh haulage businesses.
