Fuel Card News Motoring Updates: Campaign calls for lower fuel tax for transport industry

The Fuelcard Company has launched a national petition calling for ministers to lower fuel tax for commercial vehicle drivers. 

The ‘Don’t Fleece Our Fleet’ campaign is on a six-week nationwide tour of the UK’s biggest truck-stops to raise awareness of 15 percent fuel duty increases for the fleet industry during the recession and the additional five percent tax hikes planned.  At every location, the nation’s beleaguered truckers will be served burgers from a 14ft American BBQ!

UK diesel duty of 57.19p/litre is by far the highest in the EU - more than double what some EU competitors pay.

The petition calls on the Government to lower fuel tax, or freeze it at its current level, before UK fleets suffer irreparable damage.

Jakes de Kock, Marketing Director of The Fuelcard Company, said: “The fleet industry is the backbone of the UK economy, providing a vital logistical service to businesses and organisations across the country and yet is left perpetually struggling to stay afloat thanks to these apparently never-ending hikes in fuel duty.

“With many companies fighting for survival, the latest measures announced in the emergency budget, including the increase in VAT and the change to capital allowances, will only serve to weaken the industry further.”

The petition is backed by the Road Haulage Association (RHA), which has consistently challenged fuel tax rises.  RHA Chief Executive Geoff Dunning commented:  “The record high level of diesel duty doesn’t just hit British hauliers.  It also hits national competitiveness and raises the price of everything we buy in the shops.”

Recent figures revealed that before tax, UK diesel is the second cheapest in Europe; after tax it is the most expensive.

The tour began on 8 July at the Waterfront Services truck-stop in Felixstowe and will continue around the country.  To sign the petition, visit www.fuelcardroadshow.co.uk

In other motoring news, industry experts predict that most leasing firms will pass on the upcoming VAT rise to their customers, leading to rising costs for many fleets.

Fuel cards give your fleet drivers an easier and safer alternative to cash or plastic at the pumps.  Check out fuelcards.co.uk to see which package best suits your fleet’s needs.

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