Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

UK Supply Networks 2022-02-03

2022-02-03

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Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
Martyn Day
▸ Context
The question arises from ongoing concerns about disruption in the UK's supply networks due to a shortfall of HGV drivers, affecting haulage companies and other businesses.
What recent discussions has the government had with representatives of (a) haulage companies and (b) other companies involved in the goods supply chain on disruption in the UK's supply networks?
Andrew Stephenson
Ministers have been in frequent contact with transport operators and industry regarding supply chain disruptions.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Specifics about recent discussions, details on participants, and outcomes of the discussions were not provided.
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Martyn Day
▸ Context
The Road Haulage Association estimates a shortfall of some 85,000 drivers affecting supply chains, retailers and the wider economy. The Government's short-term visa scheme has been criticised for issuing only 200 visas.
Given the scale of the problem, the industry is asking for a 12-month visa for heavy goods vehicle drivers. Will the Minister confirm whether that is being considered?
Andrew Stephenson
The Government have taken decisive action on the HGV driver shortage, with 32 short, medium and long-term interventions. We have more than doubled the number of tests available for HGV drivers in a normal week from 1,500 weekly appointments pre-covid to 3,200 in a normal week now.
▸ Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not confirm whether a 12-month visa scheme was being considered.
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Gavin Newlands
▸ Context
A haulier likened the impact of Brexit to 'death by a thousand cuts', as EU companies withdraw business due to post-Brexit bureaucracy, administration and delays. Concerns are raised about future import controls deepening this crisis.
What are the Government doing to mitigate the damage they have inflicted with Brexit on the UK's economy?
Andrew Stephenson
I know that the hon. Gentleman likes to blame Brexit for everything, but of course there are HGV driver shortages around the globe. On freight coming in and out of the UK, we are seeing similar numbers at the moment as we would normally.
▸ Assessment & feedback
The question was not addressed; instead, it was criticized for blaming Brexit.
Blame Placing
Response accuracy