MPs call on ministers to help tackle freight crime

MPs have urged ministers for more support to tackle freight crime in a Westminster Hall debate this week.

The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Freight and Logistics chair, Rachel Taylor MP called for a coordinated national strategy to combat the issue, urging greater resources for police, better training, and a national awareness campaign.

MPs also highlighted the need for more safe and secure lorry parking facilities.

Last year there were 5,370 reported incidents of HGV and cargo crime in the UK which was a five percent increase on the previous year.

Since 2020, the direct cost of freight crime has been £306.8 million, with the true value of losses likely being over £1 billion.

A recent report by Snap, the haulage industry’s digital marketplace, predicts that a lack of action on freight crime could see losses rise to as high as £6.1 billion by 2049. With inflation, this figure could increase to £7.9bn.

Taylor says: “Nearly 20% of my constituents work in the freight and logistics sector, so they know better than most how this vital industry is being increasingly targeted by sophisticated and organised criminal gangs.

“I called this parliamentary debate to ensure the Government knows that tough action is needed, and after their reassuring response today I will continue working closely with them to ensure we crack down on dangerous freight criminals and safeguard this critical industry.”

Ashton Cull, Road Haulage Association (RHA) senior public affairs manager, adds that organised crime gangs see trucks as lucrative and easy targets, so it’s vital that the industry and parliament continue to work together on tackling the issue.

He said: “We need more safe and secure parking for lorry drivers which would help deter gangs from targeting them for their loads and fuel.

“We’re also calling for new planning reforms to consider the needs of hauliers, and for police to have the resources they need to tackle criminal gangs.”

Dan Jarvis MBE, Minister of State for Security, said during the debate that the Government is working with police and industry to improve security and infrastructure.

The APPG for Freight and Logistics released their Securing Our Supply Chains report last month on tackling freight crime.