Legislation update – March 2026

Consultations which opened in March 2026.

DfT – Ukrainian driving licences: extending the eligibility period in Great Britain by 24 months

Seeks views on extending driving eligibility for Ukrainian licence holders from 36 to 60 months for some drivers and 54 to 78 months for others.

Opened 26/03/2026, closes 23/04/2026.

DWP – Industry Training Board reform

This industry consultation seeks views on the government’s proposal to bring together the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) to create a single, unified Industry Training Board (ITB) to act on behalf of the combined construction and engineering construction sectors. The consultation also seeks initial views on areas for further ITB reform.

Opened 23/03/2026, closes 14/06/2026.

DEFRA – Consultation on UK Best Available Techniques for preventing or minimising impacts on the environment from industry

Seeking views on proposed UK Best Available Techniques for reducing emissions across specific industrial sectors.

Opened 19/03/2026, closes 14/05/2026.

DfI – Proposals on changes to regulations to support the uptake of zero emission goods vehicles (ZEGVs) in Northern Ireland

This consultation is seeking views on proposed changes to driver licensing entitlement to allow category B licence holders to drive zero emission goods vehicles (ZEGVs) with a maximum authorised mass up to 4.25t.

Opened 10/03/2026, closes 06/04/2026.

Consultations which closed in March 2026

HM Treasury – Draft regulations: Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)

This technical consultation sought comments on the draft secondary legislation for carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM).

Opened 10/02/2026, closed 24/03/2026.

HM Treasury – Consultation on the Introduction of Electric Vehicle Excise Duty (eVED)

A consultation setting out further detail on how eVED will work.

Opened 26/11/2025, closed 18/03/2026.

Logistics UK responded to this consultation:

While Logistics UK understands that the government does not currently plan to include electric commercial vehicles within the scope of eVED, we would strongly advise against any future inclusion until the market is fully mature and following extensive consultation with the logistics industry. Logistics UK calls for some of the revenue generated from eVED to be ringfenced for the maintenance and delivery of new and improved road projects. Shock announcements and increases in charges for operating electric vehicles must be avoided as they impact total cost of ownership (TCOs) and business operations. Logistics UK urges government to consider the implications for businesses in Northern Ireland of a mileage-only tax and the negative impacts this may have on businesses operating across the land border with the Republic of Ireland.

DfT – New HGV CO2 emissions regulatory framework for the UK

Sought views on the most appropriate future regulatory framework to support the transition to zero emission heavy goods vehicles (HGVs).

Opened 06/01/2026, closed 17/03/2026.

Logistics UK responded to this consultation:

In summary, enabling conditions for decarbonisation must precede regulation: For any regulatory option to be workable, government must address core barriers including infrastructure readiness (grid access, depot charging, hydrogen), technology maturity and cost challenges. Without these enablers, mandates risk outpacing practical deliverability.

Option 1 is the most credible and workable pathway: A manufacturer CO2 standard provides a technology-neutral, flexible and least-disruptive route to decarbonisation, allowing multiple technology pathways and gradual fleet transition aligned with operational realities.
Tailpipe-only framework overlooks low-carbon fuel (LCF) benefits: All options focus on tailpipe emissions and therefore fail to recognise lifecycle CO2 reductions already being delivered by LCF (e.g. biomethane, HVO). A technology-neutral approach should account for verified wheel-to-wheel emissions savings alongside zero-emission vehicles.
Emissions trajectory must reflect real-world operations: Targets should follow a progressive, infrastructure-led and deliverable pathway consistent with UK duty cycles, utilisation and fleet renewal patterns, achieving majority electrification over time rather than assuming rapid early uptake.
DfT – Electric vehicle signage market engagement

In summary, the survey questions were about whether it would be useful to have more signage for EV charge points on motorways, local roads and the strategic road network. The survey noted that most road users rely on electronic devices to locate EV charge points, however signage may still be needed if technology fails, and signs should be used to make sure that road users are safe and can safely access refuelling/recharging points. Closed 11/03/2026.

Logistics UK responded to this survey:

Logistics UK’s response to the EV signage survey highlights the importance of clear EV signage on UK roads. Nationally consistent symbols and legends for EV charging on the strategic road network (SRN) is essential.

Variable messaging signs would be helpful to indicate any malfunctioning infrastructure

and to streamline use should the charging infrastructure be out of service. National Infrastructure projects like eHGV charging infrastructure installation, and route network upgrades should have a requirement to review the need for lorry parking facilities, and to provide sufficient capacity, in line with industry need. Drivers must be reassured that they will be able to charge eHGVs and must also feel confident that there are the necessary facilities for them to take a break whilst their vehicle is charging. Where a dedicated eHGV charging symbol is shown, adequate driver facilities must coexist.

DfT – National Planning Policy Framework: proposed reforms and other changes to the planning system

DfT sought views on a revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and other changes to the planning system.

Opened 16/12/2025, closed 10/03/2026.

Logistics UK responded to this consultation:

Logistics UK supports the NPPF’s shift to a clearer, rules-based framework and seeks explicit recognition of freight and logistics as critical national infrastructure underpinning growth, jobs and supply chain resilience.
Logistics UK welcomes the strengthening of Policy E3 and urges firm national safeguards for existing logistics land.
Logistics UK backs the embedding of logistics in plan-making by requiring Spatial Development Strategies and local plans to assess cross-boundary freight needs, identify and allocate strategic sites/corridors and prioritise locations with strong network connectivity.
There is a clear need to prioritise enabling infrastructure for decarbonisation and resilience, including planning for grid capacity and zero-emission refuelling/charging, and to tackle the lorry parking shortfall through robust need assessments and clear delivery mechanisms.
HM Treasury – Reforming the customs treatment of low value imports into the United Kingdom

This consultation announced the removal of the £135 customs duty relief for low-value imports and sought views on certain elements of a new set of customs arrangements for these goods.

Opened 26/11/2025, closed 06/03/2026.

DfT – Developing the automated vehicles regulatory framework

Sought views on several aspects that will inform how the automated vehicles regulatory framework is developed.

Opened 04/12/2025, closed 05/03/2026.

DVSA – Annual CPC Survey (Driver, Operator & Training Providers)

This survey was designed to gather views and experiences related to taking, arranging, or delivering ongoing Driver CPC training.

DVSA regularly engage with their customers to understand their opinions on the services they provide, and are now broadening this to include vocational drivers and Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) training organisations. Feedback will help DVSA identify what needs to change and where improvements can be made across the Driver CPC system.

Opened 16/01/2026, closed 02/03/2026.

Announcements, March 2026

31/03/2026 – DfT – Self-driving vehicle pilot scheme: information for applicants

Outlines the application process and safety, operational and reporting requirements for self-driving vehicle pilot deployments.

30/03/2026 – DfT – Work experience: a guide for logistics employers in England

Explains how logistics employers should design and deliver work experience opportunities that support young people and strengthen future talent pipelines.

26/03/2026 – DfT – EES: New EU border checks for Brits this Easter

Brits are reminded to be aware of the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) when travelling to Europe this Easter and to follow travel operator guidance.

26/03/2026 – DfT – Government investment in roads: third Road Investment Strategy

The Secretary of State for Transport announces £27 billion strategy to maintain, upgrade and improve England’s major roads, boosting safety, growth and connectivity.

23/03/2026 – OTC – Drivers’ Hours: A Traffic Commissioner’s perspective on safety, compliance, and responsibility

In commercial road transport, few regulations are as vital to public safety and operational integrity as the rules governing drivers’ hours.

20/03/2026 – DfT – EM on requirements and testing for motor vehicles (COM(2025)993)

The government’s summary of a proposal for a regulation on the simplification of technical requirements and testing procedures for motor vehicles.

19/03/2026 – Scottish Government – New guidance on battery storage sites

The guidance sets out how the planning process can ensure development is properly sited, well designed and responsive to its context. It also summarises regulatory requirements relevant to BESS.

16/03/2026 – HMRC – Voluntary National Insurance contributions for periods abroad from 6 April 2026

This tax information and impact note is about changes to voluntary National Insurance contributions for periods abroad from 6 April 2026.

16/03/2026 – DVSA – Approved tachograph centre special notice 01-25

Includes updates on 2025 payments, tachograph retrofit rules, 2025 workshop cards and speed limiter calibrations.

12/03/2026 – DESNZ – UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS): policy overview

The role of the UK Emissions Trading Scheme in UK decarbonisation and how the UK ETS Authority is developing the scheme.

09/03/2026 – DVSA – Report a lorry or HGV driver or company

Report a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) driver or company if you think they’re breaking safety rules.

05/03/2026 – DESNZ – UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS): policy overview

The role of the UK Emissions Trading Scheme in UK decarbonisation and how the UK ETS Authority is developing the scheme.