June 2001

TTF to meet DELTR Minister

A delegation of the Timber Trade Federation will be meeting with Transport Minister David Jamieson MP to discuss the impact of Government transport policy on the timber trade. The meeting takes place on Thursday 19 July 2001.

Mark O'Brien the TTF's Public Affairs Manager said, " The high level of transport costs in the UK damages any industry dependent on moving its product around on the roads as the timber trade does. The combination of high excise duty on vehicles plus the duty on fuel makes the cost of transportation higher here in the UK than anywhere else in the European Union. Fuel taxes by the Government's own admission are being used to fund public services and the pretence that these costs in any way reduce CO2 emissions has proved laughable. The whole tax regime facing the road haulage industry does not help it to compete in Europe and an urgent review of fuel duty and VED is badly overdue. We want and need a level playing field. "

Any one wishing to express a view can call 020 7389 0126 or email mobrien@ttf.co.uk