// Almost 3000 lorry drivers are planning a strike next month over low pay & their working conditions
// However, the RHA, which has more than 7000 members, warns drivers against taking action
// There are concerns a strike could compound the issues facing the UK supply chain at the moment, namely a driver shortage
The lorry driver shortage plaguing the UK at the moment is at risk of worsening amid reports that almost 3000 hauliers are planning a strike next month.
According to The Observer, the hauliers are proposing a nationwide “stay at home” day on August 23 over low pay and their working conditions.
There are concerns this could compound the issues facing the UK supply chain at the moment, which has been struck with a driver shortage thanks to a combination of Brexit and the “pingdemic”, leading to food and stock shortages for some retailers across the country.
READ MORE:
- Grocers urge customers not to panic buy amid “pingdemic” & lorry driver shortage
- Gov’t announces new plans to tackle lorry driver shortage
- Supermarkets to be given “flexibility” over late-night deliveries amid driver crisis
The proposed “stay at home” action has so far attracted nearly 3000 HGV drivers, according to The Observer.
However, the Road Haulage Association, which has more than 7000 members, warned drivers against taking action.
It said it would make a “bad situation worse” and disrupt automated chains.
It comes after the government last week unveiled plans to help tackle Britain’s mounting lorry driver crisis, including easing driver qualification requirements and improved working conditions.
Ministers announced a consultation to allow drivers to take one test to drive both articulated and rigid lorries as part of a package of measures.
Other measures include giving drivers more official parking spaces and boosting standards of lorry parks to help encourage hauliers to stay in the sector.
The logistics industry, which retailers – especially grocers – rely on to transport goods to stores or warehouses, is facing an estimated shortfall of around 100,000 HGV drivers.
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