If anyone needed reminding of the difficult situation we find ourselves in just now, then the 54% decline in LCV registrations in March should do it, although reassuringly when I talk to members in the sector there is a view of underlying resilience as the market continues its long term structural change.
Yesterday we received a letter from Alok Sharma, Secretary of State for Business, reminding everyone of the importance of keeping the manufacturing and supply chains open. It’s worth quoting him: “It is vital that we ensure that servicing, parts and raw materials are available to keep vehicles and services on the road and operating. I would like to give you all my personal thanks for everything you are doing.” This recognition from government of the importance of our sector is a welcome reminder of our industry’s critical and valuable contribution.
Earlier today came the announcement from the London Mayor and TfL on the delay of Direct Vision Standard (DVS) introduction and changes to London’s Low Emission Zone (LEZ) until February 2021 – a necessary measure to ensure that both critical workers can get to work and essential deliveries can continue unencumbered.
For businesses to remain open or indeed reopen adhering to the social distancing requirements can be a challenge so we are also pleased that government has this week issued further guidance that hopefully provides more clarity. You can find that here.
