FTA general election campaign kicks off
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THE FREIGHT TRANSPORT Association's (FTA) pre-election lobbying campaign is already in full swing — it is wooing politicians ahead of the upcoming general election to place the freight transport industry's concerns at the forefront of both current and prospective MPs' minds.
Jo Tanner, FTA director of communications, tells CA/L "We've been courting all the politicians for some time; we're 75% of the way through our campaign."
In logistics-heavy constituencies, the FTA has been meeting MPs face-to-face to explain the issues the industry faces.
It has also arranged a series of MP visits to local operators.
"We want them to understand our industry before they are elected. Once they get elected, they have every industry knocking at their door," adds Tanner.
The FIA's UK-wide election manifesto will be published in early February and will be sent to every Labour, Conservative and Liberal Democrat candidate, while prospective MPs in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will also receive a country-specific one.
The FTA's manifesto will also be sent out to other parties, including the UK Independence Party, Sinn Fein, and Democratic Unionist Party.
"It's important we don't just focus on the front bench. There are an awful lot of foot soldiers out there; a lot of people who sit on committees," says Tanner.
In addition to the manifesto, the FTA is producing a commitment card for MPs to carry around with them that list five key areas the association wants the government to commit to: • Invest in UK infrastructure • Work with the FTA on carbon solutions
• Amend The Highway Code
• Respect commercial vehicles • Tackle truck crime.
"We want all politicians to understand these issues and act on them," declares Tanner.
The Road Haulage Association (RHA) will publish its election manifesto next month.
Asked if the FIA is concerned the RHA may make different demands. FTA managing director of policy and communications James Hookham says: "If it comes up with complementary issues to put to politicians, great; it would be helpful and plug any gaps we have not been able to cover."
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