FREIGHT FORWARDERS RESPOND TO BUDGET

Whilst welcoming new measures to enforce the regulations on foreign operators, announced in yesterday’s budget, the British International Freight Association (BIFA) is concerned that the rise in fuel tax will further impede the ability of UK freight forwarders to contend with their European competitors.

Yesterday, the Chancellor announced that fuel duty is set to rise by 2p a litre this year - deferred until October - then up 2p next year and 1.8p in 2009. In addition, the budget promises new funds for the enforcement of regulations on foreign lorries in the UK, as well as the detection of illegitimate foreign operators.

Commenting on the budget, Colin Beaumont, Director-General of BIFA, said: “Whilst we recognise the Chancellor's prudence in increasing fuel duty in line with inflation and deferring the increase, we still believe that the rise will make our members less competitive against operators from mainland Europe.

“The British International Freight Association will study the Chancellor’s budget closely and, where appropriate, will continue to lobby government to ensure that our members are given the opportunity to operate competitively.”

-ENDS-

The British International Freight Association (BIFA) represents UK companies engaged in the international movement of freight by all modes of transport. A not-for-profit organisation, BIFA is funded by subscription and run by its members for members. It operates with a full-time Secretariat, which administers and manages the Association’s affairs. BIFA provides an effective and proactive organisation dedicated to improving standards of professionalism within the logistics and supply chain industry.

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This release was published on openPR.