Let's stop with the Oliver Twist attitude
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LOOKING AT THE Budget statement in brief ('Budget offers little for hauliers', CM 24 June), it is our industry that is going to contribute more than its fair share to aid the UK recovery through the unjust fuel duty it pays.
I like the statement that talks about the Budget being "one that plans for the future". "targets an enterprise-led recoveryand "rewards work and protects the vulnerable". That sounds like the UK road haulage industry. It works hard, is vulnerable, and in need of protection.
I think we are the Oliver Twist of the UK, asking: "Can I have some money for fuel duty, before we all go broke, please Sir?"
According to the Budget, two duty increases are coming in the next six months; let's hope for your company's well being that your customers are prepared to pay. But there are increasing numbers who can't.
Why don't operators work together through trade associations to sort this out? You don't have to be an association member to write to them. If you express your views on rising duty increases in writing, the trade association and CEOs would be pleased to forward them to the government as evidence of your concerns for the industry Act and we might get something done. Do nothing, and all you will receive is gruel. Let's take a leaf out of Oliver Twist's book: "Please Sir, just a couple of coppers I've a wife and kids to feed."
Mike Presneill.
Presneill Tipper Contractors