Drivers Action Movement to campaign for change
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• A rallying call for hauliers and drivers to unite to fight "disgraceful" industry conditions was made at the launch of a campaign on Sunday.
About 70 drivers and small operators met in Manchester to declare the start of DAM, Drivers Action Movement.
Its manifesto includes calls for the Government to re-invest money it earns from vehicle tax into the transport industry; the introduction of laws to prevent late payment; and an insurance scheme to ensure hauliers are paid if their contractor goes under.
Spokesman Jack Crossfield, a driver for 31 years, rules out immediate direct action in favour of generating more support. But DAM's eventual line of attack could include blockading motorways and boycotting firms which rely on truckers, in a bid to get their financial and lobbying support.
Crossfield was disappointed with the turnout for the campaign, which he believes is the first to unite trade unions, nonunion drivers, owner-operators and small hauliers.
The group will meet again in Yorkshire on Sunday 8 May.