RHA has called on the government to introduce targeted support for commercial vehicle operators, including coach companies, as fuel price pressures mount.
The calls come through Managing Director Richard Smith, who in an editorial intervention says that the needs of the road transport industry must be recognised alongside recent government support for households facing rising energy bills.
The trade body is urging ministers to consider an “Essential Fuel User Rebate” for commercial vehicles. The mechanism would effectively return VAT on fuel to operators, and marks an evolution from earlier calls for a temporary VAT reduction. It argues such measures are needed to offset the impact of volatile fuel prices.
Alongside the rebate proposal RHA is calling for fuel duty to be held at its current level in the short term. It is also urging government to abandon plans to link fuel duty to inflation from April 2027.
Also highlighted are concerns around fuel market oversight, with a call for stronger governance to protect operators from unfair pricing.
“The Prime Minister’s announcement of emergency support for households facing soaring heating costs is welcome,” writes Mr Smith. “Reports that government may act where fuel suppliers engage in excessive pricing also suggest stronger oversight of the market may be considered.
“One thing is clear. We need a clear plan and a step-by-step approach to achieving it to provide certainty and clarity to this essential sector, which drives the economy by supporting critical supply chains and the movement of people.”
