22 October 2021

UK GOVERNMENT PLANS TO SUSPEND CABOTAGE RESTRICTIONS

The UK government announced last week that it is planning to allow non-UK operators temporary extra cabotage rights within Great Britain. In order to alleviate pressures in the supply chain associated with the current shortage in lorry drivers, the proposal would allow unlimited cabotage movements of heavy goods vehicles for up to 14 days after arriving on a laden international journey into the UK compared to the current rights of 2 cabotage journeys within 7 days of entry. It is proposed that the extension will apply for 3 or 6 months, subject to ongoing review and that it would not be targeted at specific transport operations.

The easing of cabotage rules will require regulatory changes that the government intends to make operational as soon as possible. For more information see UK Government