Is the Government really actually going to charge overseas hauliers coming into the country? It looks as if it may as the Government gave a big hint this week that it might finally happen.
Ruth Kelly, transport secretary said in a statement: “One option under strong consideration is a 'vignette' - a time-based charge for the use of UK roads designed to ensure foreign hauliers help pay for the wear and tear inflicted by their vehicles.”
But what does “strong consideration” actually mean? The implication is that they are going to do it. If so, why don’t they just announce it?
Could it be that this is really about trying to win over hauliers who are angry over the fuel duty increase? It is hardly a coincidence that the press release came out the same day as the hike in fuel duty.
Actually I suspect that they will bring in a vignette (toll) into the UK although one reason for that is that it will enable VOSA to register the details of all overseas trucks entering the UK, so that they can chase any fines. One question is how much this will raise (not much I think) and how the Government will ensure that UK hauliers do not have to pay more (probably through reduced VED).
The press release also says that £200 million will be allocated by VOSA to enforce the road safety laws. This is the amount it reckons it is going to receive from the new fixed penalty on-the-spot fines being introduced next year.

See also: Overseas trucks involved in 1,000 accidents a year