Government must fast track freight plan, says Logistics UK

Following the publication of the government’s integrated transport strategy today (2 April), Logistics UK is calling for a renewed focus on the delivery of the plan for freight promised in the strategy. Business group Logistics UK’s Chief Executive Ben Fletcher commented:

“The situation in the Middle East has put transport networks and supply chains under the spotlight like never before, and a comprehensive integrated transport strategy must take the work of our sector into account, balancing the needs of the travelling public and business.

“In recent discussions with government, Logistics UK urged officials to recognise the interdependent nature of the country’s freight and transport networks and to include freight within its final strategy. The decision to produce a separate freight plan will delay any changes which will benefit our sector, and so it is vital that this new plan is delivered at pace with clear delivery milestones.

“The logistics sector is an essential user of the transport network and its role in underpinning supply chains across all UK industries and enabling economic growth must be reflected in the government’s long-term vision for how transport is designed and delivered. Our members are keen to help deliver the growth agenda the country needs but to do that will need a functioning, effective transport network.”

Logistics UK is one of the UK’s biggest business groups, representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping the UK trading, and more than seven million people directly employed in the making, selling and moving of goods. With decarbonisation, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc. Logistics UK supports, shapes and stands up for safe and efficient logistics, and is the only business group which represents the whole industry, with members from the road, rail, water and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers whose businesses depend on the efficient movement of goods. For more information about the organisation and its work, please visit logistics.org.uk