Speaking to Radio 4's Today programme on Monday, head of enforcement and research at the Dutch-based FNV union, Edwin Atema demanded Europe reject Britain's calls for help to overcome the crisis. Despite admitting issues have persisted for years in the industry he turned on his heels and claimed visas required for drivers following Brexit was not worth the hassle to help the UK out.

       The union boss said: “Pay is an important area but it is not the only area.

       “Long before the Coronavirus and Brexit, this industry was sick already!

       “Plagued by exploitation by irresponsible multinationals who dragged down prices which ended up with drivers voting with their feet and gently leaving the industry.

       “Heaven was offered to these drivers but it ended up to be hell for these drivers.”

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       He added: “There is a whole range of issues behind even the news of toilet facilities in the UK and rest of Europe.”

       But in a phenomenal slap down, Mr Atema turned the issue of the HGV driver shortage into a Brexit attack on the UK despite earlier saying issues persisted long before Brexit and Coronavirus.

       He slammed: “The EU workers we speak to will not go to the UK for a short term visa to help UK out of the s**t they created themselves!”

       But a furious Mishal Husain was having none of it as she can be heard sighing before scolding the union boss.

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       She slammed: “Not ideal language! But we get the message.”

       Shortages of HGV drivers have caused supply chain issues with a handful of garages forced to close down due to shortages of fuel.

       But the news caused panic among the public who have been rushing to petrol stations to fill up their cars.

       Now, petrol stations are now reporting shortages in diesel and unleaded with the Government assuring there is no shortage in fuel. Emergency plans are being considered by Boris Johnson which involve bringing in the army to help deliver fuel and monitor garages.

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       Co-op manager in Burwell, Steve Smith, also shared his experiences of abuse and told the public on his local Facebook page he would not accept it.

       He wrote: “It's with great sadness I post this but due to incidents today I feel I have to.

       “May I remind you verbal abuse will not be accepted to any of my colleagues. Also remember all of our store and forecourt is monitored by CCTV so I will personally ensure all incidents of abuse are reported.

       “Is there a shortage of fuel? Simply no, it's a shortage of drivers across the UK.