Hauliers are facing a further financial burden after the minimum financial standing requirement for Standard Operator Licence holders increased to £8,100 for the first truck and £4,500 thereafter.
This has increased because of the devaluation of the Pound against the Euro and an EU directive requires countries that do not use the Euro to revalue every five years.
The Road Haulage Association has expressed its concern over what equates to a sharp 30 per cent increase as it could cause damage to the haulage sector, which is already struggling. It has asked the Department for Transport to seek permission to defer the introduction of the higher rate and bring in measures which will help hauliers at a time of extreme financial pressure.
Sean Joyce, transport law partner at Stephensons Solicitors LLP, advises drivers and hauliers facing prosecution. He says: “This is a very significant change which came into effect from 1st January. The change has come as a surprise for the entire road transport industry and was introduced very quickly.
“Hauliers are already going through a time of uncharted pressure, so this increase could not have come at a worse time.”
The new revisions will remain in force until January 2012 when a new streamlined system will be introduced.
ENDS
Notes to editors
About Stephensons
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Media information: Lianne Tracey
Stephensons Solicitors LLP
Tel: 01616 966 229
Email: lct@stephensons.co.uk