Recommendation 20

The average age of HGV drivers continues to increase. Although the sector is perhaps more open to female drivers than in the past, it has largely failed to attract a diverse workforce. It is disappointing how little progress has been made since our predecessor Committee reported five years ago. That 1% of drivers are women, and only 3% of drivers are under the age of 25, should be a cause for shame for the industry and a clarion call to do more. The Supply Chain Levy we recommend, and resultant improvements in training and facilities, should assist in improving these appalling ratios. In addition, the sector must redouble its efforts to attract and retain a diverse workforce. (Paragraph 63) 34 Road freight supply chain