HAULIERS in South Ribble have expressed their delight after councillors promised to help them in their against crippling increases in road and fuel taxes.

South Ribble Borough councillors are to call on local MPs David Borrow, Audrey Wise and Nigel Evans to question the government's increases in road tax and diesel fuel in a bid to help save the jobs of lorry drivers in the area.

Coun Jim Breakell, leader of the South Ribble's Conservatives, put forward a motion during last week's full council meeting demanding the authority fights more actively to persuade the government to reduce road tax and diesel charges.

Coun Breakell said: "The tax is being imposed to save our environment but it is seriously damaging our local haulage operators.

"Car owners are suffering as well."

His call met with a warm response from fellow councillors.

Coun Norman Crossley added: "European wagons now have an extra fuel tank because it so much cheaper to fill up in France.

"These extra tanks mean they do not have to full up in Britain. If it gets to the point where people cannot afford a motor car, villages like Much Hoole and Samlesbury will collapse and die." Independent councillor Tom Sharratt added: "Eddie Stobart is considering moving his operation to France, because the fuel is so much cheaper.

"South Ribble hauliers and their employees will be seriously effected. I know of lorry drivers who fear for their jobs."

David Borrow MP has already vowed to support the hauliers.

He said: "I believe this strategy of upping taxation for environmental reasons shouldn't continue indefinitely and I have already raised the question of what will happen in the future."

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