The headlines have continued to be full of stories about the ongoing shortage of HGV drivers and the possibility that there will be shortages of all sorts of goods in the supermarkets.

We would like to reassure our customers that not only do we have enough fully-qualified drivers, we have continued to meet our commitments to customers.

Among the suggestions that have been put forward by the RHA (Road Haulage Association) and the Government have been shortening and simplifying the lengthy and complex HGV training process in the UK.

This is being looked at but, as the RHA has pointed out, it is not going to be a short term solution.

Another suggestion, of including a short-term visa option for overseas HGV drivers, but the Home Office has apparently ruled this out.

The RHA had asked that drivers be added to the so-called Shortage Occupations list, allowing them to qualify for a skilled worker visa.

One option that has been introduced has been extending the time HGV drivers can spend driving. The transport Secretary Grant Schapps announced this temporary measure on July 12.

However, on July 20 RHA said the crisis is so great it needs immediate short-term measures allowing the industry to work towards the longer-term fixes.

RHA Chief Executive, Richard Burnett said, “This is a step in the right direction long-term, but it doesn’t address the critical short-term issues we’re facing. The problem is immediate, and we need to have access to drivers from overseas on short-term visas. The idea to simplify training and speed up testing is welcome; along with encouraging recruitment it will only improve things in a year or two’s time.”