The Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport welcomes the fact that that the coalition Government has made its first steps towards re-examining the principle of taxation on fuel in today's budget.
Not only will there be no rise in fuel tax, but the Chancellor today confirmed it is examining the impact of sharp fluctuations in the price of oil on the public finances, to see if pump prices can be stabilised.
CILT welcomes in particular George Osborne's commitment that he will: 'look at whether a rebate for remote rural areas could work'.
CILT Chief Executive Steve Agg says: 'Users of the road network who have no other choice of mode have long suffered the inequity of unfair tax burden. Those living in rural areas as well as the logistics industry in general have always endured disproportionate taxation on transport and I welcome this review on behalf of the Institute.'
The Institute is also extremely pleased to see that the controversial and unfair backdated business rates bills for many businesses in ports will be cancelled.