Guidance & Support

Experts are urging the UK to make speed limiters mandatory on all vehicles to enhance road safety. This call coincides with the EU's implementation of the Vehicle General Safety Regulation, which took effect on July 6, 2022. This regulation mandates new safety features in all EU vehicles, including advanced emergency braking and intelligent speed assistance, but these measures are not yet mandatory in the UK.

The UK Department for Transport (DfT) is researching the potential impacts of adopting these rules, with an update expected soon. The DfT is also a member of the European New Car Assessment Programme, which encourages the use of many technologies included in the EU's safety regulation.

Introducing speed limiters could prevent over 1,700 deaths and 15,000 serious injuries in the next 16 years. AXA UK, along with the road safety charity Brake and other industry groups, is pressing the government to adopt these measures. Alain Zweibrucker, Retail CEO at AXA UK, emphasised that road crashes claim thousands of lives annually in the UK and that the new safety regulations could significantly improve safety for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.

Intelligent speed assistance technology, which uses GPS and traffic sign data to warn drivers when they exceed speed limits, is one such feature that can automatically slow down a vehicle to ensure compliance with speed limits. The push for mandatory speed limiters is seen as a straightforward and effective way to improve road safety across the UK.

Following Labour's election victory, Logistics UK highlighted the sector’s potential to drive economic growth. As one of the UK’s largest sectors, logistics offers skilled jobs and helps remove barriers to opportunity.

David Wells OBE, Logistics UK’s Chief Executive, emphasised the sector’s importance: “Logistics supports households, businesses, and public services daily, employing 8% of the UK workforce. It is well-positioned to aid the new government in revitalising the economy, provided its needs are incorporated into the industrial strategy.”

Theres been calls for new administration to support the sector and ensure an efficient, cost-effective logistic structure - crucial for economical growth. Logistics UK is advocating for collaboration on infrastructure, decarbonisation, skills, innovation, and trade policies, aiming to boost the economy by up to £8 billion annually.

Wells underscored the need for clean, green growth and the creation of engaging roles to attract the next generation of logistics talent. Logistics UK urges the government to form a public-private partnership with the industry, ensuring logistics businesses are considered in all economic decisions. A dedicated minister for logistics and supply chain is recommended to integrate the sector's needs into government plans, enabling logistics to support the country's return to growth.

Keir Starmer proclaimed the "sunlight of hope" is shining again in Britain following Labour's resounding election win, ending 14 years of Conservative rule. Starmer is set to become prime minister after Rishi Sunak conceded, with Labour expected to secure over 410 seats compared to the Conservatives' 115.

Starmer, speaking at Royal Festival Hall in London, expressed relief and optimism, emphasizing a renewed opportunity for the country. The Conservatives faced their worst election performance, with key figures like Liz Truss, Jacob Rees-Mogg, and Grant Shapps losing their seats. Labour also made significant gains in Scotland and from the SNP, while the Liberal Democrats increased their seats to 70.

Reform UK saw a rise, winning at least four seats, with Nigel Farage becoming an MP. The Greens also won four seats. Notably, former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn won in Islington North as an independent, and pro-Palestine independents had surprising victories.

Sunak acknowledged the defeat, emphasising the peaceful transfer of power. Labour's triumph is seen as a beacon of hope for progressive movements globally. The party reclaimed significant regions from the Conservatives, marking a major turnaround since Starmer took leadership. Labour is poised to implement substantial changes, with a focus on workers' rights, energy generation, and improved trading relations, while addressing critical issues like the NHS and prison system.

London's roads have been ranked the most congested in Europe for the third consecutive year, with drivers spending an average of 99 hours in traffic in 2023, up from 97 hours in the previous year. This ranking, reported by traffic data supplier Inrix, places London behind only New York and Mexico City globally, excluding China and India.

It’s been well noted that traffic congestion has returned to pre-Covid travel levels, with the UK and Europe experiencing smaller increases in congestion compared to other regions. Despite London's high congestion, its drop to third globally indicates that other major cities have returned to pre-pandemic activity levels also - highlighting that increased congestion can signify strong economic activity.

Inrix data revealed a 3% rise in time lost to traffic compared to pre-Covid levels. On average, UK drivers spent 61 hours in traffic last year, up from 57 hours in 2022. Other heavily congested UK cities include Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, and Wigan.

An RAC spokesperson, emphasised the negative impact of congestion, noting wasted time and fuel, and poor air quality. Cities have been urged to find solutions. While some measures like park-and-ride schemes can be costly, others, such as retiming traffic lights, are inexpensive and can improve traffic flow.

Interns with learning disabilities at a Trentham Logistics Centre have received praise from colleagues and Staffordshire County Council. Ben Matthews, 21, and Zain Abbas, 19, started at the site in Autumn 2023 through the Mencap Internship Programme, which aims to increase employment for people with learning disabilities, with less than 5% currently employed according to the UK charity.

Ben Matthews, who faced job rejections before becoming an intern dispatcher, shared, “With a learning disability, it isn’t easy, but I’ve managed to find something and I’m happy.” The supported internships programme, coordinated by Staffordshire County Council, offers a work-based study programme for young adults aged 16 to 24. Interns split their time between education and the workplace, supported by a job coach. Russ Guest from Screwfix, who mentored Ben and Zain, praised their progress, noting, "They've gone from being really quiet in the background to being right up there - having confidence that you wouldn't believe."

Colleague Bev Parry highlighted the positive impact on the team. "Having people with needs onsite has brought it to the forefront in people's minds. It's brought out the best in a lot of people." Michelle Edwards, who trained the interns, believes the programme can succeed anywhere. "You just break it down for them. They learn in the same way; it might just take them a little longer. If you put in the time and effort, they'll bring ultimate value to your company."

Overall, the success of Ben and Zain's internships demonstrates the potential and benefits of inclusive employment practices, encouraging other businesses to consider similar programmes.

Veterans into Logistics, a Greater Manchester charity, has proudly launched three new red Volvo trucks. This achievement was made possible by generous donations from Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland, Asda, and a £30,000 grant from the Veterans’ Foundation. Founded in 2020 by former Royal Artillery Airborne Gunner Darren Wright, the charity supports 150 ex-military personnel each year, helping them transition into new careers as HGV drivers.

The new Volvo trucks, replace older vehicles in the charity's fleet and will operate primarily in North-West England. These environmentally friendly trucks will help reduce CO2 emissions compared to diesel vehicles. Carl White from Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland explained their involvement, noting the meticulous preparation of the trucks, while David Shaw from the Veterans’ Foundation highlighted their ongoing support through grants and donations.

A distinctive feature of the new fleet is the life-size images of veterans Abi Howard and Wez Thomson on the rear doors. Both Abi and Wez completed their HGV training through Veterans into Logistics and now work for Mϋller UK & Ireland and Asda. They expressed their gratitude for the charity’s support and the positive impact it has had on their careers.

The launch of the new fleet coincided with Veterans into Logistics being Highly Commended at The National Facilitator Awards, which celebrate trainers who create meaningful change. This recognition underscores the charity's significant role in helping veterans transition to successful civilian careers.

Starting on October 28th, hauliers operating HGVs over 12 tonnes in London must comply with the new Direct Vision Standard (DVS) Progressive Safe System (PSS) criteria. Trucks will need to be equipped with updated, compliant equipment, but many operators report they won't be ready by the launch date.

There is ongoing confusion about which equipment meets the standards, and businesses nationwide express concerns about being prepared in time. The three-month grace period from TfL is seen as insufficient, with three-quarters of operators in a recent survey doubting they’ll be ready and 80% requesting more time. Additionally, many experienced lorry drivers have negative experiences of driving in London, and over 95% of firms say their drivers don’t feel valued.

Concerns also exist about the availability, cost, and reliability of approved equipment. Businesses unable to upgrade their fleets may face significant financial strain, with daily charges of £550 for non-compliant trucks operating in London. TfL estimates that 216,000 trucks across the country are affected by the new DVS requirements, and there are doubts about the capacity of installers to meet the rising demand.

Some key haulage firms have called for an extended grace period to allow more time for compliance with the new DVS regulations. However, the final decision on the length of this grace period has been delayed until July 18 due to the upcoming General Election, which has shifted focus and resources. Despite these challenges, the overarching goal remains clear: improving the safety of London’s roads is of paramount importance.

During a four-day operation, roads policing officers issued penalty notices and warnings to HGV drivers for carrying dangerous loads on the region's roads. Operation Chemical involved checks on eighty-six lorries along the A11 in Norfolk, A14 in Suffolk, M11 in Essex, and A1 in Cambridgeshire.

The operation, conducted from 7 to 10 May, included collaboration among Commercial Vehicle Units (CVUs) from Essex, Norfolk, and Suffolk forces, along with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency. Sgt Jason Dearsley of Essex Police noted that intervention was necessary when ten drivers were found to be exceeding their allowed driving hours, risking reduced concentration and increased danger.

The focus was on the safe transportation of hazardous goods, vehicle roadworthiness, and driver welfare. Sgt Dearsley emphasised the importance of stringent regulations for the safe movement of goods to protect all road users.

A notable incident involved a HGV being driven by someone without the required HGV licence. The operation resulted in four drivers receiving penalty notices, sixteen receiving warnings or advice, and one case involving a radioactive shipment requiring further investigation. Additionally, twelve vehicles were stopped for carrying overweight loads, eight for insecure loads, and eight drivers were found not wearing seatbelts.

New heavy goods vehicle (HGV) registrations have fallen for the first time in two years, with a -3.9% decline in Q1 2024, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Despite this, 11,068 new HGVs were registered between January and March, only 449 fewer than the same period in 2023, which had the strongest start to a year since the pandemic.

Demand for tractor units, the largest market sector, fell by -16.7%, and tipper uptake declined by -6.3%. However, curtainsiders saw a 23.1% increase, flat lorries rose by 21.6%, and box vans grew by 20.6%. Regional uptake varied, with the Southwest seeing the largest growth at 11.8% with 994 new HGVs. East Anglia had the largest decline, down -26.4% to 457 units. The Southeast remained the largest investor in new heavy vehicles, with 2,351 registrations, despite a -2.7% decline.

Zero emission vehicle (ZEV) registrations reached 0.5% of overall HGV registrations, up from 0.3% the previous year, marking a 56.3% increase in volume. Growth in ZEV uptake remains limited due to low operator confidence and a cumbersome grant system, which results in fewer than half of all ZEV models being eligible. Additionally, the UK has a shortage of dedicated HGV charging points, with only one truck-specific charging station located at the M61 southbound service station. This lack of infrastructure hampers longer-distance operators from adopting greener vehicles.

Reforming the grant system and implementing a national infrastructure plan would facilitate the switch to zero emission HGVs, potentially reducing CO2 emissions by around 19 million tonnes annually.

Nottingham-based logistics firm Mitchells of Mansfield, part of Palletways UK, has launched the Carbon Co-op initiative to advance its decarbonisation efforts.

Mitchells of Mansfield is part of Palletways UK’s network of over 120 depots, leveraging shared resources to deliver palletised freight efficiently. Palletways Group, known for its IT and operational systems, spans over 450 depots and 20 hubs, providing services across 24 European countries, including the UK.

Partnering with climate action platform Ecologi, the Carbon Co-op allows businesses to offset consignment emissions by paying a small fee based on travel distance. These fees support global climate projects aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals. Businesses in the Carbon Co-op can track their impact through Ecologi's “virtual forest”, monitoring CO2 avoided, and trees planted.

Managing Director of Mitchells of Mansfield, Richard Montgomery highlighted the initiative's role in helping customers make sustainable choices effortlessly. The firm also runs a monthly Carbon Free Day, offsetting all customers' CO2 emissions at no extra cost. Aiming to become climate positive by 2027, Mitchells of Mansfield has funded 2,000 trees and avoided 532.5 tons of CO2 - equivalent to 409 long-haul flights or 1,321,133 miles driven. Inspired by Palletways UK's efforts, they track progress on Ecologi's virtual forest.