On the Road – Logistics UK’s CEO stresses importance of connectivity and tackling freight crime

Port of Tilbury visit 

The new Logistics UK Chief Executive visited the Port of Tilbury to learn more about how the port serves as a key intermodal hub for sea, road and rail operations and learn more about how it acts as a powerful platform for growth as part of the Thames Freeport.

It plays a major role in power generation, concrete production and major tunnelling developments connecting to the Isle of Grain.

Mr Fletcher had an insightful conversation with Neil Sime, chair of Logistics UK’s Rail Council and Executive Chairman of Victa Railfreight, who oversees all rail operations at Tilbury and Ross McKissock, Director of Unitised, the owner of Port of Tilbury.

FCDO reception 

Logistics UK’s CEO took part in a Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) reception, which celebrated progress made towards the UK-US Seaway Shipping Corridor.

The corridor enables ocean-going and Great Lakes-specific vessels to access the interior of the US continent, and discussions to shape a more sustainable transatlantic trade route are ongoing.

Home Office roundtable 

Mr Fletcher joined ministers including Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Freight and Logistics Rachel Taylor, Sarah Jones MP and Keir Mather MP to discuss freight crime.

The ministers listened intently to the concerns and challenges faced by the industry, and there were very positive contributions from NaVCIS and others.

Rachel Taylor said: “20% of my constituents work in freight and logistics, which is why I have pushed so hard for government action to tackle the serious organised freight crime that is blighting this vital sector.

“It was fantastic to get government, trade associations, police and industry around a table to hammer out a road forward, and it is clear that government is listening and willing to take action. I’m so pleased following my campaign that the government is already trialling a new tagging system for tracking freight crime.

“What we need now is more support for NaVCIS, investment in safer parking, and better standards so drivers can park without fear. These are things I will keep pushing for.”

Mr Fletcher raised concerns over the welfare impact on drivers and the economy, and, while Logistics UK very much welcomes the flagging scheme, it is still believed there should be a crime code specific to freight crime and for sentencing guidelines to be addressed and to change the perception of these crimes being seen as low risk, high reward by organised gangs.

One of the discussions was around technology and the ability to apply design to new infrastructure to improve safety going forward.

Mr Fletcher said: “Visiting the Port of Tilbury and attending the Home Office round table was a privilege. The Tilbury visit highlighted how it is evolving into one of the UK’s most important logistics hubs and strengthening transport connections across the country from shipping which arrives in the south east.

“It was a strong reminder that nothing moves without logistics, and all industries depend on the role our sector plays in moving goods in an efficient, time sensitive and reliable manner.

“Logistics needs certainty and security to operate effectively, and I enjoyed engaging with government officials to stress the importance of tackling freight crime and illustrating the impact it has on our hardworking sector.

“At Logistics UK we’ve been campaigning for measures such as improving information flows and sharing best practice, to improve the safety and security of hauliers who are doing a fantastic job, and who deserve to feel safe at work.”