Sam Rowlands MS highlights the importance of road haulage in Wales

SAM ROWLANDS, Member of the Welsh Parliament for North Wales, has called for more support for the road haulage industry. Mr Rowlands, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Transport recently sponsored a reception for the Road Haulage Association in the Senedd to celebrate the upcoming National Lorry Week and supporting the road haulage and coach sectors in Wales. He said: "I was delighted to welcome fellow members to an event which highlighted the importance of our road haulage sector and to celebrate National Lorry Week which is being held next month.

"It is quite amazing to think that in the UK, 98% of all food and agricultural products are transported by road freight and everything we eat, drink, wear and consume depends on this industry. "It is so important that this particular industry receives the support it deserves and I was really pleased to have the opportunity to highlight the vital work these companies carry out.

"However, I do think the Welsh Government needs to do more to support this sector. "The Welsh Government road building ban is definitely not helping.

We need to get Wales moving again and invest in key routes such as the M4 relief road and the A55 which is a vital link from North Wales to the North-West of England.

Sam Rowlands MS for North Wales with Directors, Katie Bellis, James Bellis and Fiona Moulding, RF Bellis Haulage, Wrexham

"I also recently called for more Welsh Government investment to improve conditions for road haulage businesses in North Wales after meeting with RF Bellis Haulage, based on Wrexham Industrial Estate, along with representatives from the Road Haulage Association. "They explained to me the persistent problem that comes with a lack of proper infrastructure for freight here in Wales. "They were concerned about the pressures for operators because of the rise in cargo theft particularly from poorly secured truck stops and rest areas.

"We rely on this sector every single day for transporting goods that we all need but Wales still lacks adequate secure parking and investment on those key freight routes. This issue certainly needs addressing." National Lorry Week is an annual celebration of the haulage industry and its people, teams and organisations, showcasing the vital role of the sector and the rewarding career opportunities available.

Taking place between November 3-9, it champions those who play a vital role in ensuring the UK gets the goods it needs, from drivers to warehouse staff, mechanics and logistics.

National Lorry Week is run by the Road Haulage Association, the largest dedicated trade association for HGVs, vans and coaches in the UK.