London, UK: The government plans fines for trucks drivers entering Kent without a Covid-19 test.
The decision has been criticised by Logistics UK. Elizabeth de Jong, policy director, Logistics UK, said the measures place unfair costs on the individuals working hard to keep the economy stocked with the goods and services it needs.
“While we agree that tests should take place outside of Kent to reduce traffic congestion, we need absolute assurance from government that this will only be implemented when inland testing sites around the country have proven capacity to meet the demand for tests. Capacity must be increased before any change in legislation can be implemented,” she said.
“To help prevent testing delays and costs, Logistics UK is calling on government to prioritise the roll out of Covid-19 vaccines to truck drivers and other operational logistics workers to minimise the administrative burden on operators and reduce resulting delays to freight movements.
“It is also imperative that international hauliers based in Kent still have access to testing within the county, to prevent unnecessary detours away from the border, and that there is also capacity to test those arriving in Kent without a valid negative test.”
logistics.org.uk
