Richard Smith, MD, RHA has responded to the Autumn budget.

“As critical economic enablers, we as an industry must be on the front foot to future-proof the supply chains. We therefore want the policymakers to work alongside us to minimise the financial burden and the regulations placed on businesses.”

He writes:

“Firms throughout the road transport sector were also delighted with the decision to continue with the freeze on fuel duty. We at the RHA have long been clear that raising fuel duty would have been catastrophic for operators. It would have been bad for the economy too. So, we’re pleased the Chancellor listened to our concerns on this.

The Chancellor’s commitment to increase the Employment Allowance for small businesses from £5,000 to £10,500 is also welcome but we do note this will only apply to the smallest companies, so many firms in our industry will not be eligible.

The increase to employer National Insurance contributions has left many business owners with much to think about – as they come to terms with the realities of the additional costs they’ll have to factor in.

With operating costs increasing and margins tightening, raising employer National Insurance contributions (NIC) to 15%, and the lowering of the threshold, will be a challenge for companies in an industry where 95% are small and medium sized and who could well do without this additional expense.

These changes will make things more difficult for many businesses of all shapes and sizes, be that operators of HGVs, LCVs or coaches.

This increase in employers’ costs in particular may force some businesses to re-think their recruiting strategies entirely. The National Insurance changes, on top of other cost implications from the planned employment law reforms, are increasing cost pressures on firms at a time when our sector is already dealing with rising expenses. This will ultimately impact the ability for some to hire new staff and expand.

Ultimately, the true test of this budget will be whether firms can invest, grow and boost the economy over the next 12 months. We stand ready to help to achieve this.

The RHA (Road Haulage Association) started its four-nation National Lorry week on October 21 in Stoke on Trent before moving on to Crumlin in Northern Ireland.

Then it was on to Scotland and Wales with the tour to end in Northampton on November 4.

The event is an annual celebration of our industry and its people; it’s our campaign to showcase the vital role the trucks, drivers and our industry as a whole plays in our lives.

Ahead of the budget the RHA is highlighting the huge role the haulage industry plays in UK economic growth and is continuing its campaign for a high quality infrastructure.

It is also arguing that raising fuel duty will damage the UK economy and cause more hardship.

It says that being collaborative is a key hallmark of operating successfully and something talked about a lot at the Road Haulage Association.

The RHA is also continuing its campaign to encourage Government investment in skills training within the haulage industry pointing to a 41% decline in overall apprenticeships.