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Logistics UK encouraged by Autumn Statement but needs to see the detail
The Autumn Statement contains encouraging signs for logistics businesses looking to drive recovery in the economy, but according to business group Logistics UK, the detail of the Chancellor’s proposals will show whether or not the industry will see real changes as a result.
Speaking about the speech, David Wells OBE, Logistics UK’s Chief Executive, says:
“The decision to make the current full expensing allowance for capital permanent is a welcome step that will support logistics businesses with long-term planning and investment. Our members are keen to identify if this change will include the cost of acquiring leased or hired vehicles, as well as those purchased outright. In addition, detail is needed to identify whether the move will cover the cost of installing the infrastructure required to help the industry decarbonise, as our research shows this could amount to an outlay of up to £1 million per site – a prohibitive charge which will hinder the industry’s shift to net zero.”
News that the planning system is to be streamlined has also been welcomed by the business group, which has been pressing for changes to be made to enable logistics businesses to plan more efficiently for some time.
“Since our industry supplies every sector of the economy, it is vital that logistics is included as part of the overall planning process, not as a bolt-on afterthought,” continues Wells. “We will continue to press government to keep us at the heart of decision-making when it comes to business investment and development.”
Logistics UK continues to seek detail on how plans for Investment Zones and Freeports are to be implemented, as well as on ways the industry can be assisted on the route to decarbonisation.
“The devil of the announcement will be in the detail,” continues Wells. “While there are indications that the statement could boost economic activity, our members are concerned about how Freeports and Investment Zones could work for them. In addition, businesses still need clarity on the support government will be providing for the transition to a net-zero economy, and we will be working closely with them in the coming weeks to ensure the best possible outcomes to keep the UK trading, both domestically and internationally.”
*www.logistics.org.uk/campaigns  
Published On: 23/11/2023 16:00:00
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In Brief
Logistics UK submits industry asks ahead of Scottish Budget
Ahead of the Scottish Budget on 19 December 2023, Logistics UK has submitted its asks to government detailing measures that would support industry and the logistics sector in particular. These include the need for greater transparency on the allocation of apprenticeship funding and the urgent delivery of upgrades to the A75, A77 and A1 to improve safety, capacity and reliability and to support cross UK trade.
Planned improvements to the A9 must also be prioritised to increase safety for road users while ensuring journeys for passenger and freight traffic are more efficient.
Logistics UK members can view the full response here.
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