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Lorry drivers across the UK are reportedly planning a nationwide strike in light of poor working conditions, in a move that could further disrupt supply chains and lead to food and goods shortages.
According to The Observer, the “stay at home” strike is now set for 23 August, and has attracted nearly 3,000 HGV drivers, with a further 340 joining last week. The move will reportedly heighten the effects of a lorry-driver shortage that has already disrupted supply chains.
Lorry driver Mark Schubert told The Observer: “For far too many years we have been ignored, exploited and taken for granted. Now our time has come, now we have a window of opportunity to be listened to.
“We are trying to send a message that drivers are thoroughly fed up with the way they are treated by employers. Yet as long as stuff’s on the shelf, people don’t seem to give a damn about us.”
Speaking to Retail Sector, however, Kate Gibbs from the Road Haulage Association (RHA) said: “We understand that feelings are running high, but we don’t think that a day of action is going to do any good.
“People already know there is a driver’s shortage. It’s actually going to make a bad situation worse. It may make people feel better, but it’s not really going to achieve anything. We need to work together, not against each other.”
She added: “I really want to stress that it is not the way forward, and it’s counterproductive.”
