Truck drivers are protesting against the rise in diesel prices and the decline in diesel engine sales.
The price of diesel has risen by more than 50% since January 2021, causing many truck drivers to strike across the country. The increase is a result of new regulations that were introduced in April 2021, which saw the price of diesel rise by 8p per litre. This was due to a 20% drop in demand for diesel engines, as consumers moved towards hybrid and electric vehicles. However, this decline has been countered by a rise in demand for petrol engines.
Why are Truck Drivers Angry?
A recent study conducted by Transport Focus found that almost half of all UK truck drivers have experienced low pay or late payments at some point during their career. This is one of the main reasons why truck drivers are striking against fuel prices and declining engine sales. Another reason for their anger is that many have seen their hours cut as a result of increased automation on trucks. According to The Guardian, one driver stated: “We’re going from being on the road 24/7 to now having to do eight-hour shifts and not getting paid for anything else we do outside those hours.”
What are the demands of Truck Drivers?
The main demands of truck drivers include:
- More jobs for UK citizens.
- Reduced working hours.
- Better pay.
On September 28th, thousands of truck drivers took part in protests across England, Scotland and Wales.
As well as protesting against rising fuel prices and declining engine sales, they also demanded better pay and more jobs for UK citizens.
There were also calls from some protesters for Prime Minister Boris Johnson to resign over his handling of Brexit negotiations.
(Photo credit should read Leon Neal via Getty Images)
