Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart is co-ordinating a collaborative initiative which reflects shared demands from across the agriculture, haulage and construction industries, urgently calling for practical and meaningful solutions as the UK’s fuel crisis deepens.
The MP has confirmed she is working closely with cross-party colleagues in Westminster to address the challenges facing key sectors of the UK economy. She said: “As part of this effort, I am co-ordinating a joint letter in partnership with leading lobbying bodies, including the Road Haulage Association, construction associations and the farming unions.
“By bringing together voices from across the political parties and critical sectors of industry, the aim is to ensure that the concerns of businesses and workers are clearly communicated to Government, and that policy responses are both effective and sustainable.”
The DUP’s Carla Lockhart remains committed to constructive engagement, championing the interests of these industries, and working to secure outcomes that support economic stability, job creation, and long-term growth.
She recently issued a stark warning to the Labour Government, accusing it of “sleepwalking straight into a crisis of its own making” amid rapidly escalating pressures on key sectors of industry which are vital to the UK economy.
The MP said: “The warning signs are already here, and the UK Government must step up and act now!”
Speaking after a meeting in Westminster with representatives from the Road Haulage Association, Ms Lockhart highlighted the intensifying challenges facing industry, particularly in the wake of rising global instability following the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
“Fuel costs have risen by 40% in just four weeks, and this simply isn’t sustainable. Higher fuel prices are not only driving up costs for everyday consumers, but are pushing businesses and employers to the brink,” she said.
Carla Lockhart MP confirmed she is working closely with cross-party colleagues in Westminster, and is in the process of organising a round-table meeting focusing on the mounting challenges facing the agriculture, haulage and construction sectors.
In parallel, the MP is also leading efforts to bring together key industry voices, to draft a joint letter to both the Chancellor and the Prime Minister.
She added: “This is a united approach involving MP’s and industry to ensure that the concerns of those who keep our country running are heard loud and clear at the highest levels within the Labour Government.”
Ms Lockhart stated: “I believe there are three sectors our government truly fears: agriculture, haulage and construction. They are the backbone of the United Kingdom’s prosperity, and they possess both the power and the determination to ensure their voices are not only heard, but impossible to ignore.
“The current situation is fast approaching a tipping point. Pressure is building, and the momentum for widespread disruption is growing. This is not background noise – it is a clear signal that the people who keep this country moving are being pushed to breaking point.
“Fuel costs are crippling consumers and impacting commercial industries. Fertiliser prices remain sky-high. Margins are gone, and Government is non-existent.
“The UK’s agriculture, haulage and construction sectors are not optional. They are the foundation of our food supply, infrastructure, and national supply chains.”
Pointing to recent developments in the Republic of Ireland, Ms Lockhart warned of the potential consequences of continued Government inaction: “When these sectors work together, they do not just make a point – they force a response. They have the power to bring the country to a standstill. The question is simple: why is the UK Government waiting for the same to happen across GB and Northern Ireland?”
Carla Lockhart MP added: “The message is loud and clear. We need decisive leadership: Not more statements, not more delays – but action that actually delivers. That means targeted fuel support, meaningful relief on input costs, and practical policies built around the real pressures these industries face every single day.
“If these sectors are allowed to fail, the consequences will not be isolated. They will impact food supply, infrastructure, jobs, and households right across the United Kingdom.”
The MP’s warning comes as iconic British brand JCB has threatened to move its UK- based business interests to America. A statement from Jo Bamford described the UK Government’s inheritance tax policy as a “real problem”, confirming that the company, founded in 1945, is considering leaving GB as a result of Labour Party tax levies being forced on family businesses.
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