RHA is doing a stirling job
Page 16
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I THOROUGHLY AGREE with John English that we are "drowning under too many rules and regs(`Letters', CM 5 November).
But, with reference to conspicuity tape, English says that "the cost of a few stickers is infinitesimal on the price of a new truck': implying that it is a minor issue, and yet he then lambasts the Road Haulage Association (RHA) as being pompous for not getting involved in issues such as conspicuity tape. The RHA and its members are constantly badgering politicians and other rule-makers in an (often successful) attempt to soften the blow of what is inflicted on the haulage industry.
A victory (albeit shortlived) came on 16 July 2008 when, two weeks after I was part of a group of members that lobbied Westminster to brief our MPs on the effects on our industry of the rampant fuel price inflation, Gordon Brown announced to the House of Commons he was "freezing fuel duty for the full year" (although he subsequently reneged on this promise and increased fuel duty less than five months later). This was an issue we couldn't assume the MPs were aware of — and nor could we assume anyone else would educate them on the issue.
I will admit to being biased towards the work of the RHA because, for many years. I have been an active member and supporter of the organisation.
I believe my membership is vital as we try to keep ahead of the game and stay informed of all of the red tape inflicted on our industry (usually from Europe). I often wonder how hauliers can continue to operate legally without the benefit of attending sub-region meetings or regional briefings to be kept abreast of the everchanging legislation.
Andy Jenkins Director SE Davis & Son