Stirling MP Joins Calls for Action on HGV Driver Shortage

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Categories: Brexit, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Local Business, UK Government (Westminster)

Alyn Smith MP has backed calls from the Road Haulier Association for the UK government to act urgently on addressing serious issues in the road logistics sector.

The RHA have voiced their concerns over recent weeks regarding a shortage of drivers in the industry, which has only been exacerbated by Brexit and the pandemic.

Even before the pandemic, there was an estimated skills gap of around 70,000 drivers. Brexit uncertainty around rights to live and work has put in question almost 60,000 drivers from EU states, whilst ongoing travel disruption as a result of Covid-19 has the sector extremely worried.

Stirling MP Alyn Smith has written to the Home Secretary to relay these concerns, and suggest a Seasonal Visa Scheme may help address short-term issues in the logistics sector to allow discussions and action on long-term solutions to be developed.

Alyn Smith MP said:

‘Driver shortages in the sector have been an issue for some time, but have only been exacerbated by Brexit and the pandemic. This is a real issue that will have real impact on households, putting additional pressure on our already bruised logistics sector and risks driving up the cost and end-price of consumer goods.

‘I’ve written to the Home Secretary urging action, before this crisis deepens. Blockages in our road haulage sector will have a knock-on impact on the rest of our logistics network. Businesses in my constituency are looking for solutions, and they need them quickly.’

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