Autumn Statement – emissions linked rebate could stimulate demand for low-carbon fuels, says RHA

The RHA is calling on the Government to introduce an emissions-linked rebate to encourage hauliers and coach operators to switch to low-carbon fuels.

A move to make low-carbon fuels such as HVO more cost effective could help the industry accelerate its decarbonisation journey. Whilst zero-emission technologies are developed, low-carbon fuels can help operators reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 90 percent.

Ahead of the Government’s Autumn Statement in November the RHA urges ministers to increase the heavy vehicle mechanic apprenticeships funding band to £23,000. This could incentivise training providers to run much-needed programmes amid a growing shortage of mechanics.

Reforming the Apprenticeship Levy into a more flexible Skills Levy for apprenticeships and approved vocational courses such as skills bootcamps would help plug skills gaps in the industry.

The RHA is calling for planning reforms including the National Planning Policy Framework to be strengthened to make it easier to secure planning permission for much-needed new lorry parking facilities.

Funding for lorry parking should be ring-fenced and a cross-departmental taskforce established to review existing facilities with industry and other stakeholders to develop long-term solutions.

Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director, said:

“Moving people and goods is a fundamental building block for the economy and society – it’s the core enabler of all economic activity.

“Hauliers and coach operators need consistent laws and regulations that allow the sector to work and invest in a predictable way so they can continue to deliver for us all.”