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The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has come out in support of the traffic commissioners amid its concerns that the draft local transport bill could threaten their independence. The bill, released last month, would place the existing role of senior traffic commissioner on a "statutory" footing, to "promote consistency between the individual TCs". Under the role the STC would also have the power to "issue guidance and general directions to the TCs, covering any aspect of the conduct of their functions".

RHA policy director Jack Semple says the association "is concerned to find out more about the STC appointment. We don't need the need to put the senior traffic commissioner on a statutory basis." Semple adds: "We are keen to protect the independence, both in theory and in practice. That's our fear - we are not outright opposing the proposal, but our concern is that the independence will be undermined." The RHA and Freight Transport Association (FTA) were among those submitting evidence to the Transport Select Committee last week.

Road pricing also came under fire, with the RHA calling for trucks to be exempt from any schemes proposed by local authorities. The charges are to encourage people out of their cars and also relate to the time vehicles are on the road, it says. "Lorries aren't going to work. They are at work. Let's keep a focus on congestion," Semple says.

FTA head of roads policy Malcolm Bingham says the bill's current proposals need amending to  consider more the needs of freight, highlighting changes to delivery curfews and shared priority lanes. He adds that road pricing must provide greater benefits in improved journey times and other access provision.