RHA staff member attacked by migrants at Calais
A member of the Road Haulage Association's staff was attacked at the Port of Calais last night (03 August) when a boulder was thrown at his car.
Commenting, RHA chief executive Richard Burnett said: "Thankfully, although very shaken, our man was unhurt. However, we are now entering the peak holiday season when families, as well as hauliers, rely on this key route between the UK and the rest of Europe. Had this been a car with a family on board, probably with children in the back seats, they would have been killed..
"l am dismayed that the escalation of these migrant attacks remains so far down the news agenda. Since last summer we have been pleading for more security to be put in place at Calais. We have even asked for deployment of the French military, particularly on the approach roads. Yet UK-bound drivers now run the risk of attacks every time they approach the Port – day and night."
Despite the partial clearing of the migrant camp earlier this year, numbers of migrants in the area have escalated dramatically. Reports are that there are now over 7,000 displaced people in the area, their sole aim being to reach the UK at any cost.
In conclusion, Richard Burnett said: "We strongly urge HGV drivers and members of the public who experience such acts of aggression too get in touch with us through the Calais reporting line on (+44) 1274 863111. Only by getting first-hand information can we make a difference and get this issue back at the top of the political and media agenda."
