Cut fuel duty to boost economy, RHA tells ministers

Cut fuel duty to boost economy, RHA tells ministers

The RHA is urging the Government to introduce a minimum 15 pence per litre rebate for commercial vehicles.

An ’essential user rebate’ would reduce the cost of moving people and goods and put the brakes on inflation.

The call comes amid industry fears that the 5p duty cut won’t be extended in the Spring Budget.

Rod McKenzie, RHA executive director, said: “It’s essential that the Government help out the backbone of the British economy — whether it is plasterers or electricians.

“It would politically be a big mistake to punish van drivers and that’s why we are asking for the 5p duty cut to be extended beyond April,” he told The Sun.

“We were disappointed that there was no further action when Mr Hunt delivered his Autumn Statement last week.”

The Treasury has said no decision has been made about fuel duty from April, when it is set to rise in line with inflation.

The Office for Budget Responsibility has indicated that it is expected to rise by 23 per cent, adding 12p a litre to petrol and diesel prices.