Linlithgow MSP Fiona Hyslop, attended the 80th anniversary of the Road Haulage Association in the Scottish Parliament, in her role as Cabinet Secretary for Transport.
The RHA is the only trade association in the UK dedicated solely to road haulage.
As a trade association, the RHA is responsible for campaigning, advice, training, information and business services for its members within the UK haulage industry, including audits, risk assessments and contracts of employment.
Commenting, Fiona said: “I was pleased to attend and speak at the 80th Anniversary of the Road Haulage Association (RHA) in my role as Cabinet Secretary for Transport.
“The RHA are based in Bathgate in my constituency and for eight decades have been at the heart of one of the most vital industries in our economy – an industry that keeps our shelves stocked, gets our goods to market and keeps our communities connected.
“Over the years we have seen this industry change and through all of this the RHA have been a steadfast advocate for their members, adapting to new challenges and ensuring that the sector continues to thrive.
“The climate crisis is perhaps the biggest challenge of our age, and the road haulage sector will play a crucial role in reaching our target of becoming a net-zero nation by 2045.
“The RHA have been instrumental in shaping Scotland’s HGV Decarbonisation Pathway and I am pleased to see that the Scottish Government’s draft budget will include funding to explore financial mechanisms for HGV decarbonisation.
“As we work towards decarbonisation it is essential that we consider the impacts of the transition on people, communities, workers, and businesses. I know some of my Constituents are employed by the RHA in Bathgate and I would encourage anyone working in this industry to take part in the consultation on the Scottish Government’s Draft Transport Just Transition Plan which will open soon.”
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