The Road Haulage Association (RHA) is pressing the UK Government to introduce an Essential User Rebate for HGV, coach and van operators, arguing that commercial transport businesses should receive targeted assistance because fuel is an unavoidable business input.

It has also called for an indefinite freeze on fuel duty and measures to improve payment terms and cashflow throughout the transport sector.

The UK Government has already extended the temporary 5p-per-litre fuel-duty cut until 31 December 2026 and introduced a 12-month HGV Vehicle Excise Duty holiday worth up to £912 per vehicle.

However, the RHA maintains that further intervention is required.

RHA Managing Director Richard Smith said the immediate problem remains cashflow, low margins and the continuing high level of insolvencies within road transport.

For UK hauliers, the concern is increasingly about how long operators can continue absorbing exceptional fuel costs.

And with road freight carrying the overwhelming majority of Britain’s goods, further financial pressure on haulage businesses ultimately risks feeding through into transport rates, supply chains and the price paid for goods by businesses and consumers.