The UK’s next government must support logistics businesses in transitioning to Clean Air Zone regulations by helping develop the market in alternatively fuelled vehicles, rather than simply imposing heavy taxes on diesel owners.
So says the Freight Transport Association (FTA), adding that heavy taxes on diesels will crush economic growth and drive up prices throughout the economy.
Christopher Snelling, head of national Policy at FTA, said: “It is vital that the next UK government continues to help and support freight and logistics operators as they work to comply with the latest Clean Air Zone regulations, and should not be using the industry as a sector for a problem which is the responsibility of all. There is no environmental purpose to increasing diesel duty on vans and lorries, as unlike diesel car drivers, operators of these vehicles currently have no realistic alternative.
The call comes as the FTA publishes its Manifesto requests, including highlighting how research by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) has shown that the introduction of a 3ppl reduction in fuel duty would boost the economy and be revenue neutral for the Government.
