Campaign for Safer Roadside Rescue and Recovery supports launch of APPG in Westminster

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Campaign for Safer Roadside Rescue and Recovery supports launch of APPG in Westminster

The Campaign for Safer Roadside Rescue and Recovery(CSRRR) reached another landmark moment yesterday with the launch of an All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) focussing on the industry’s issues. The campaign is pushing for increased safety for recovery industry workers – including the use of flashing red warning beacons and a change to the Government’s policy on ‘All Lane Running’ Motorways.2

The Rt Hon Sir Mike Penning MP, one of 7 MPs in attendance, was elected Chair of the APPG. Commenting on the occasion, he said:

“I know from my previous work as a Roads Minister3 – and also just as a motorist – what an important role the roadside rescue and recovery industry plays in society. For too long their concerns have been overlooked by government. Today’s initial meeting of the APPG marks a massive step towards putting that right and securing the recognition and protection this vital industry demands and deserves.”

Also in attendance was Sam Cockerill, whose life had been turned upside down when her partner was killed while recovering a vehicle on the side of the M25 last September4. Sam Cockerill’s MP, Tracey Crouch, attended the meeting. Tracey Crouch said:

“I was deeply saddened to learn of the case of my constituent Sam and her deceased partner Steve. But it wasn’t until I spoke with Sam and read about the issue that I realised the extent of the problem and the feeling in the industry that lawmakers weren’t listening to them. My hope is that today will be the beginning of the industry having a proper voice in Westminster.”

Some of the leading figures behind the Campaign also attended the meeting. Amongst them was Andy Lambert, Chairman of RISC, and Richard Goddard of Automania Group.

Andy Lambert commented: “I have been working in the recovery industry for over 50 years. In that time it has always felt that government take decisions without consideration of how it will affect our industry. This lack of knowledge costs lives, and hopefully today is a sign that things are finally beginning to change.”

Richard Goddard commented: “Today was an emotional day for me personally. This industry has been seeking recognition from government for as long as I can remember – to little effect. But now after years of driving for change, it feels for the first time that we’ve got the backing of some powerful, industry-aware MPs who will help us achieve the recognition we deserve and raise our status to that of an essential emergency service.”