APPG hears from IRHA and IRU on fuel duty
On the 17th May the APPG conducted its second oral evidence as part of its ongoing fuel duty inquiry. The APPG was delighted to hear from representatives of the European trade body the International Road Transport Union (IRU) and the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) on the benefits of an essential user rebate and wider support for the international haulage sector. The session was led by APPG Chair Greg Smith MP and Vice-Chair Gavin Newlands MP.
The session covered a range of key issues, including how rising fuel costs are impacting countries across Europe, with the war in Ukraine also having a significant impact. The IRU offered case studies of how these price rises have led to EU member states implementing measures to support transport operators, such as exercise duties, state aid and reductions in road user charges.
The IRHA outlined the current fuel situation in the Republic of Ireland, describing how Irish operators have renegotiated with the Irish Government to address spikes in fuel costs. They also went on to discuss the importance of Government working to support industry on the path to net zero and alternative fuels to diesel.
The APPG was delighted to hear from two major international trade bodies in it’s aims to make clear recommendations to Government using real-world international evidence. We were also delighted to host the IRHA on their first trip to UK parliament.
This session will form part of the APPG’s inquiry into the impact of fuel duty on road freight and logistics businesses, as rising fuel prices and inflation continue to place huge financial pressures on UK businesses.