Burnham-On-Sea MP Ashley Fox has visited a local haulage company to hear first-hand how rising fuel prices are placing growing pressure on transport businesses and the wider economy.
Ashley met Sean Finn at Gillards Transport on the Colley Lane Industrial Estate, Bridgwater where the pair discussed the challenges facing operators amid recent increases in the wholesale cost of diesel. The industry has raised concerns that sharp rises in fuel prices are hitting firms already working on tight margins.
During the visit, Ashley Fox was told that diesel can account for around 30% of the cost of running an HGV, meaning even small increases can have a significant impact on day‑to‑day operations.
The discussion also covered the Road Haulage Association’s call for an Essential User Rebate for commercial operators, along with worries about planned rises in fuel duty.
Speaking after the visit, Ashley Fox said road haulage businesses remain “absolutely vital” to the UK economy, with almost every product relying on lorry transport at some stage.
He said hearing directly from Gillards Transport had underlined how higher diesel prices affect not only haulage firms but also households and businesses through increased costs for food, building materials and everyday goods.
Ashley added that he will take the concerns raised back to Parliament and press Ministers to recognise the importance of keeping Britain’s transport and supply chains moving.
He has previously highlighted the pressures facing local employers, including rising operating costs such as National Insurance contributions, and the impact these have on businesses across the Bridgwater constituency.
