FTA warns of fresh chaos in Calais

James Hookham

James Hookham

The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has warned that motorway blockades and protests at fuel refineries in France are impacting on UK lorry drivers, exactly 12 months after industrial action led to chaos in Calais.

Dozens of petrol stations near the French port have run dry and FTA members have been struggling to fill their tanks. Many UK drivers have told the FTA they are visiting numerous stations before finding fuel and being allowed to buy only a limited amount.

The problem is expected to get worse as protests over a new labour market reform bill continue, and this weekend’s half-term holiday get-away could turn into a nightmare for motorists on this side of the Channel.

Last summer’s action by striking ferry workers cost the UK transport and logistics industry an estimated £21m due to delays, cancelled ferry sailing and interrupted Eurotunnel crossings, the association said.

Deputy chief executive at the FTA, James Hookham, said: “The damage caused to our members last year was far-reaching and this can’t be allowed to happen again. The Port of Calais handles £89bn worth of UK trade every year – it’s a vital trade route that must be protected.”

Following last year’s problems, the FTA devised a five-point plan of measures to tackle the issues, which included a call for the Port of Calais and the Eurotunnel facility to be declared off-limits to any industrial action.

More strikes and protests are planned, with disruption expected at ports, airports and on rail lines. Rail workers have announced rolling strikes every Wednesday and Thursday until July.