RHA launches 'Mission Driven' a Blueprint for delivery

The road haulage, van and coach industry will be a key partner in enabling the new Government to achieve its five national missions and we stand ready to do so.

Over the next five to ten years, businesses are going to experience significant change, whether that’s due to decarbonisation or emerging AI. Long-term planning and new skills and ways of working will be needed to cope with that change, and we want Government to work with us to meet those challenges.

Today we’re delighted to launch our brand-new set of proposals:  ‘Mission Driven: A Blueprint for change’ Over the weeks and months ahead, we’ll spotlight these specific areas and our recommendations to Government to meet the challenges ahead.

As the only dedicated trade association representing the interests of HGVs, LGVs and Coaches, we’re ready to work with Government to support schemes and policies that improve important routes, improve connectivity, and drive growth.

In the King’s speech, there were announcements relevant to our sector on planning and infrastructure through the reform of the National Policy Planning Framework. On skills, we welcome the proposed reforms via a Skills Levy and again, we’ve highlighted how building the foundations for a future workforce is essential. We were encouraged to hear about more about devolution to England’s metro mayors in the King’s Speech and we look forward to working with Government to help deliver the Government’s mission at a local level. Government has pledged to consult with industry on the measures it has announced. This document will form the basis of our engagement with decision makers across the country.

Commenting on the launch of the document, RHA Director of Policy and Public Affairs, Declan Pang says:

“When looking at the legislative agenda, we want to collaborate with decision-makers who understand the importance of prioritising the road transport sector as a long-term strategy for transport to kickstart economic growth. “In our new policy document, we have focused on a range of areas where we believe there are commonalities and opportunities for industry and Government to work together.

“We have clearly outlined how the road transport sector can support the new Mission Driven Government, and what we need from Government to play our part in that mission.”

Notes to Editor:

Everything we eat, drink, wear and consume depends on our sector and the companies and drivers that operate it. We are ready to work with Government to address the following areas (their stated missions) and in the document linked below, we go into detail on how precisely to do that.

You can view the full RHA Blueprint document HERE

1. Kickstart economic growth.
We need the new Government to minimise the financial burden on operators to ensure our industry is there to deliver for the rest of the economy. A threat to the reliability of our road network, therefore, is a threat to the nation’s economic recovery. It’s vital that Government invests in our road network and speeds up delivery at all levels

2. Make Britain a clean energy superpower
Key to this mission will be decarbonising the heavy commercial vehicle fleet. Our industry knows the part it has to play, but the cost of decarbonisation, estimated to be £100bn, is simply astronomical. We need a clear, managed roadmap so that all haulage and coach businesses can make that journey on the road to net zero.

3. Tackle Freight Crime 
Last year there were over 5,300 incidents of freight crime, with a loss value of good stolen of over £68m. It is carried out by organised crime gangs with industry knowledge, and the proceeds of their crimes feed into their other illegal activities. Tackling it is not just a question of driver safety and wellbeing – it is about cutting off a low risk, high reward funding stream for some of the most dangerous criminals in the country.

4. Break down barriers to opportunity.
Plugging skills gaps and building the foundations for a future workforce is essential. Our industry is no different, and as jobs in logistics are comparatively better paid with better prospects for promotion, there are opportunities for young people and career changers at all levels.

5. Build an NHS fit for the future
Our cheap, efficient road haulage industry keeps our doctor’s surgeries and hospitals supplied with medicines and equipment. As we explore new technologies and efficiencies to support the growing demands on our health service, our industry is looking to these measures to secure its own future in a changing world.