Heavy Vehicles Proposal A Positive Step

The Government is to be congratulated for opening up the issues relating to heavy vehicles, says Business NZ.

Business NZ Chief Executive Simon Carlaw says a proposal released by the Land Transport Safety Authority to make NZ heavy vehicle regulations similar to Australia's would be good for New Zealand.

"It would ensure higher efficiency and productivity and an increased standard of living for New Zealanders," Mr Carlaw said. "Freight rates would fall, to the benefit of businesses and consumers.

"Studies indicate an increase in NZ's GDP of between 2 and 4% would result from the change.

"Such a change would mean less fuel consumption and less exhaust emissions per tonne carried. Initial reports also indicate the change would be consistent with international best practice and would assist New Zealand 's international competitiveness.

"It is pleasing to see the Government taking the lead on an issue that has the ability to improve the environment for business and we look forward to reasoned debate on the proposal over the next two months."

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