UK road transport operators are facing a "crucial time" ahead of this year's election as the industry continues to battle the effects of the recession, it has been claimed.
According to the Road Haulage Association (RHA), it is vital that the next government listens to the voice of UK hauliers and helps support the industry.
The group said transport firms are the "essential link" in UK supply chains, calling on ministers to recognise the essential contribution of the industry to the economy.
RHA chief executive Geoff Dunning said: "This is a crucial time for the UK road transport operator."
"It is essential that the next secretary of state for transport is someone who will actually listen to the voice of this industry as opposed to just hearing it."
The group said ministers must tackle the unfair fuel duty burden placed on hauliers, step up enforcement and maintain planned spending levels on UK road networks.
RHA's call follows a similar plea by the Freight Transport Association, which challenged the government to show its commitment to the logistics sector.
The group said continued investment in roads and transport infrastructure, as well as a revision of the tax regime, were vital to the industry's future.
