duntisdave wrote:
The problem, as I see it, is that this site needs to decide weather it is just for the haulier, or the general motorist. I know that it has been said a million times that it is for everyone, but there are too many contradictions. For instance, TrabsAction-2007's own e-peteition is asking for "an essential user rebate" and to "de-couple hauliers from domestic users", as well as a general rate cut.
I don't understand why you can't see that it is these ideas which is losing you support from the general motorist. The public will make the assumption that should the Government finally listen, and reduce fuel duty, they will take the cheapest option, i.e. an essential user rebate.
Believe it or not, most people are aware that the price of fuel for hauliers affects the price of food in the shops. But where do you draw the line? How do you decide who is an essential user? As a self employed tradesman, my fuel bill is now my biggest overhead, and I have recently raised my prices to try and recoup some of it. Does that make me an "essential user"?
My wife works for the local health authority. She needs fuel to get to work as well. Is it fair that our fuel should be more expensive that hauliers?
Now, I don't have anything to do with the haulage industry, so don't know how it works. However, what I do know is this: If TransAction-2007 wants to stand up for the British motorist, and fight for a rate cut for ALL, then I think you should remove all references for an essential user rebate.
If however, you think that an essential user rebate is central to your aims, then I think that you should dedicate this site as a "haulier's Site".
Personally, I think you need the support of the general public, as you had during the protests of 2000.
We have TWO agendas. One for the Haulier and one for the Motorist, but combined we are fighting as one. Does this make it any clearer.