Witham MP Priti Patel shows support for National Lottery Week

Ms Patel praised the road haulage and logistics sector for its vital role in driving economic growth during the awareness campaign.

She said: “National Lorry Week is an important reminder and an opportunity to celebrate the haulage and logistics sector, which plays such a vital role in our economy.

Witham MP Priti Patel is supporting the road haulage and logistics sector for National Lorry Week (Image: Office of Priti Patel MP)

“Here in the Witham constituency, we are proud to be home to outstanding logistics businesses.

“These are businesses that support local jobs, invest in skills and apprenticeships, and help connect Essex with the rest of the country and the wider world.”

The Witham constituency is home to several major transport and logistics businesses that connect Essex to markets across the UK and beyond.

National Lorry Week celebrates the professionalism and dedication of all who work in the sector, including HGV drivers, warehouse teams, mechanics, apprentices, and business leaders.

Ms Patel said she is in regular contact with industry representatives and the Road Haulage Association to understand the challenges facing the sector.

These include rising fuel costs, business rates, national insurance increases, skills shortages, freight crime, and the need for more safe and secure parking.

Ms Patel said: “The contribution of those within the logistics and haulage sector often goes unrecognised, but without them, our country would not be able to run.

“I regularly speak with our local businesses about the pressures they are facing, from rising fuel costs and business rates to National Insurance increases.

“These are real challenges that are placing significant strain on businesses and affecting investment and recruitment.

“Logistics companies are essential to growth, but they are being squeezed from all sides by this Labour government.

“These damaging policies are undermining confidence, increasing costs, and holding back opportunities for local people.

“I will continue to champion our local logistics sector, support the businesses that keep our economy moving.”

The sector employs 2.6 million people – around eight per cent of the UK workforce – and underpins supply chains relied on by businesses and families nationwide.