Covid trucking heroes now “forgotten”, says MSP

HGV drivers who were once praised as heroes for keeping the country moving during Covid have now been "forgotten," according to shadow cabinet secretary for transport, Sue Webber MSP. Speaking at a Scottish Parliament roundtable hosted by Logistics UK, Webber said: "The vital role HGV drivers played keeping the economy moving during the Covid pandemic was recognised and understood, but four years later they have been forgotten." She pointed out that ignoring drivers doesn't just hit the industry, it "impacts on our entire economy and impacts the price of goods we buy." Webber also stressed the need for "safe and secure locations for trucks to stop" to fight "the escalating levels of freight crime," adding "our drivers deserve better."

Logistics UK said Scotland is short of proper truck stops - especially in the Highlands - and is pushing for a national review to fix the gaps and raise standards. Alexandra Herdman, senior policy manager at Logistics UK, backed the call: "More than 200,000 people are employed in logistics roles in Scotland which represents 7.8% of the nation's workforce but their contribution to the country's growth and the economy as a whole is not always recognised." She added: "Scottish trade is enabled by the logistics sector and HGV drivers, [but] their health, safety and wellbeing is not prioritised by officials or planners.

This has to change.

"Those driving freight around the country, and further afield, must have access to the same hygiene and rest facilities afforded to those who work in offices, shops and factories.

To expect them to be unable to access safe, clean and secure places to rest and eat during and at the end of a working day is unacceptable," she concluded.