On the Road – Logistics UK’s CEO welcomes Keir Mather to President’s Council

The Minister spoke about the importance of logistics and noted how he was looking forward to speaking at Logistics UK’s Annual Conference in June. He remarked on the impact of the Iran conflict on supply chains and the long-term need to decarbonise to ensure future energy resilience.

The Council highlighted the rising cost of doing business, practical and policy support needed to enable decarbonisation across the sector, and the need to speed up planning delivery on the ground. The Minister and Council also discussed his role as a sector champion within the Department for Transport and across Whitehall, working in collaboration to highlight the importance of logistics to the whole economy.

The Council then heard from Climate Change Committee CEO Emma Pinchbeck, who shared analysis on how the CCC sees the logistics sector decarbonising. Members welcomed the expert insights Emma was able to share and the CCC’s recognition of the importance of decarbonising HGVs. The Council also discussed the important role of modal shift and low carbon fuel in reducing emissions across the sector.

The meeting concluded by reviewing the latest economic insights on the sector, presented by Deputy Director for Policy Information, Sarah Watkins.

Mr Fletcher said: “It was a pleasure to have Keir Mather attend our President’s Council to speak to our members, reaffirming how integral logistics is to doing business.

“I’d also like to thank Climate Change Committee CEO Emma Pinchbeck for giving her time and invaluable insights on the pathway to decarbonisation.

“Logistics companies are the backbone of our economy, but rising costs and inflationary pressures are squeezing the sector. Logistics UK is engaging with the Government and key advisers to ensure its voice is being heard.

“Nothing moves without logistics, and today’s current climate is a stark reminder that what affects logistics, is felt by all sectors.”