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Government Trade Strategy - Logistics UK's Head of Trade and Devolved Policy Nichola Mallon responds
Responding to the publication today (26 June 2025) of the government’s Trade Strategy, Logistics UK Head of Trade and Devolved Policy Nichola Mallon said:
“The Trade Strategy sets a positive overall direction of travel for growth, but the logistics sector needs to be intrinsic to the tactical delivery plans if the government’s growth ambitions are going to arrive at the intended destination, on time.
“Increasing exports is one of the fastest ways to boost growth yet border bureaucracy has meant that many UK businesses now choose to focus solely on the domestic market. Modernising customs processes is something we have been advocating for some time and our members will be encouraged that the government is harnessing digitalisation and intending to deliver a single trade window.
"It is essential that further detail is provided and this happens as soon as possible to reduce the considerable data burden and border friction on businesses, particularly SMEs, and that government takes coordinated and concerted action to support UK businesses to start exporting again.
“The creation of a new Supply Chains Centre and Economic Security Advisory Service are positive steps towards monitoring and responding to supply chain risk and the strategy rightly highlights the importance of supply chain resilience to the economy.
"To be effective, both must be developed in partnership with the logistics sector taking into account the importance of the UK’s international gateways for trade which are a core part of the UK’s Critical National Infrastructure.
“Over the coming weeks, we will continue our work with the government to ensure when the Trade Strategy is implemented it has the necessary detail to address the practical aspects that hit trade such as excessive delays and checks, incompatible IT systems and complicated customs processes.”
Published On: 26/06/2025 15:19:21
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News In Brief
Applications open for funding through the Zero Emission HDV Skills Challenge Fund
This Transport Scotland fund will support initiatives which help build the skills and capabilities needed to accelerate the transition to zero emission Heavy Duty Vehicles (HDVs) and achieve a just transition in the sector.
Bids are being invited from organisations across the public, private and third sectors that can deliver impactful projects aligned with the fund’s objectives, which are:
1. Sharing knowledge on training and career opportunities: Address the lack of accessible, joined-up information for individuals and employers on the skills, training routes and career opportunities available in the HDV sector.
2. Supporting greater diversity in the workforce: Address challenges faced by the sector in recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce, with underrepresentation across gender, ethnicity and other protected characteristics.
3. Generating private sector investment in skills development: Address a need for stronger private sector involvement in building college resources and training programmes and/or stimulating the uptake of training in ZE HDV repair and maintenance, with a focus on small-medium enterprises.
The application pack can be downloaded, here:
- Skills Challenge Fund for Heavy Duty Vehicle Decarbonisation
- Funding
- Transport Scotland
Key dates
• Call opens: 11 June 2025
• Deadline for submissions: 9 July 2025
• Notification of outcomes: August 2025
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