PFL leader turns on RNA and FTA with blockade threat
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• by Guy Sheppard The leader of the People's Fuel Lobby is threatening to carry out blockades on the headquarters of the industry's two main trade associations in response to their "inadequacy" in putting over the case for a cut in fuel duty.
Andrew Spence says the action will come 'sooner rather than later and will bring the associations from their gin brigade to start representing us, the people that pay their subscriptions." The plan has previously been discussed within PFL circles and Spence is expected to meet with the rest of the group soon to resurrect the idea. If he fails to get the support he expects, Spence says he is prepared to blockade the associations' offices alone.
"The associations are sucking up to the government instead of standing up to them," he says. "They need some backbone to put over the true voice of their members."
Spence fears the associations are losing touch with grassroots feeling on the issue of fuel duty—he cites a BBC Newsnight debate in which RHA chief executive Roger King sat next to then Transport Minister Gus Macdonald: "Surely King should have been sitting next to David Handley facing the government... Represent your members or collect your P45s."
However, Bob Russett, the new national chairman of the RHA, is amazed at Spence's plan: "Fuel is very firmly at the top of the RHA agenda. We were talking to the previous admin istration right up until the election was called and we will be pursuing them for further meetings at the first opportunity."
An ETA spokesman points out that lobbying brought about positive changes in the last Budget such as VED reductions, a cut in fuel tax (albeit a small one), and consultation on a Brit Disc scheme. He stresses: "The ETA's position has always been clear and is determined by the views of our members. It is not consistent with our members' business interests to protest."
Observers believe that Spence's latest tactic is borne out of frustration after recent fuel protests failed to make much impact (CM7-13 June).
Clive Mullins of Essex-based E&K Benton Haulage, which took part in the November fuel protests, says: "I understand people's frustration but this is ridiculous. Quite frankly I think the RHA is doing a good job, although I'm not so sure about the ETA. I wouldn't support action like this."
Spence also stood against Tony Blair in the general election on behalf of the UK Independence Party, polling 974 votes to Blair's 26710.
"I talked to Blair about the issues and all I got was a cheesy grin," says Spence. "He has not got the message.'' Last year Spence left the Hauliers and Farmer's Alliance to move to Farmers For Action after a row with former HFA joint-leader, Len Johnson. Johnson blamed the rift on Spence wanting to take more militant action (CM 13-19 July).