THE trade body which represents Britain’s car and truck makers and importers is calling for a freeze on fuel duty.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) says that if the government freezes fuel duty it will relieve immediate financial pressure on businesses, fleet operators, hauliers and private motorists.
The trade body says that the increase in duty planned for April threatens industry, businesses and consumer confidence at a crucial and fragile point in the UK’s economic recovery.
The SMMT is calling for government to reduce the stress on household budgets, taking what it calls “a measured approach” to duty rates and motoring taxes that ensures stability and confidence among businesses and consumers whilst protecting government revenue.
Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive says: “Vehicle manufacturers spend £millions each year to improve the fuel efficiency of their vehicles to deliver the best deal to motorists.
“ We now need government to play its part in helping consumers and businesses by freezing fuel duty and providing stability and certainty on motoring taxes.
“Cars and commercial vehicle registrations recovered last year as confidence returned. This recovery is fragile so it is vital that government releases the financial pressure on motorists.”