Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond was among those addressed by RHA Chief Executive Roger King on the issues concerning fuel taxation and the profitability of Scottish hauliers in particular and the British haulage industry in general.

"I was very impressed with the understanding of our industry's case among MSPs and it was gratifying to receive total support for everything we are doing to bring the plight of the industry to the attention of the UK Government," said Roger King.

He continued: "MSPs promised to keep the pressure on in the Scottish Parliament, especially in view of the very high cost of fuel in the outermost reaches of Scotland.

"All agreed that the foreign haulier, operating in the UK and fuelled with cheap European diesel, represented unfair competition, particularly for Scottish hauliers. But there was also widespread understanding that the magnitude of hauliers' fuel bills had now reached the stage where many were questioning whether they could stay in business.  Hauliers present gave examples of just how much their fuel bills had gone up in the last 12 months.  Such graphic examples caused widespread consternation among the MSPs.

"This was a very successful example of bringing the industry's case to our legislators and certainly, as far as Scotland goes, we have very strong support."