Logistics crucial to the UK's future success, says Minister

Wednesday 15 March 2017

Establishing strong global trading relationships, and maintaining the UK’s ability to deliver goods on time to customers all over the world, are cornerstones of the government’s vision for a stronger, more successful nation post-Brexit, according to the Rt Hon David Jones MP.  Speaking at today’s “Keep Britain Trading” conference, hosted by the Freight Transport Association, the Minister for the Department for Exiting the European Union emphasised the importance of a flourishing logistics industry in ensuring that the government’s objective – to establish frictionless cross-border trade – can be achieved.

Mr Jones was speaking exclusively at the one day conference, which brought together global importers and exporters, as well as representatives of worldwide shippers’ councils, representatives of the Commonwealth Secretariat and UK business leaders already handling trade inside and outside the European Union.  And the Minister’s message was clear to those attending:  the role of the logistics industry is vital in ensuring that the nation’s trading partners understand that the UK will still be open for business post-Brexit and is committed to the continued growth of all the country’s trading relationships.

“We were delighted to welcome Minister David Jones to today’s conference,” said FTA Deputy Chief Executive James Hookham, “to help our delegates from across the freight sector to debate and examine the implications of leaving the EU for their businesses.

“The UK’s prosperity has been established on long term trading partnerships, and it is vital that effective, efficient logistics remain in place to assist in maintaining the country’s position as a global leader in free trade.  Strong international relationships will be vital both inside and outside the European Union as a post-Brexit Britain moves forwards, and our members will welcome the Minister’s commitment to achieving a phased process of implementation for any changes in trading arrangements, which will keep Britain trading.”

The event, held at London’s Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, was attended by more than 150 representatives of the UK’s freight and logistics industry, including air, sea and road freight operators.  During his speech, the Minister also outlined his wish to establish a new, mutually beneficial customs agreement with the EU, to support frictionless cross-border trade, and called on negotiators to ensure that the border between the UK and Ireland remains deeply integrated, to ensure the free flow of goods, utilities, services and people.

In closing, the Minister was upbeat about the future negotiations: “We have a huge opportunity for Britain to carve out a new role in the world, and to be a stronger and more ambitious country – a country that is better able to shape its own future in the world.  As the Prime Minister has said, we want to build a truly Global Britain that is one of the firmest advocates for free trade anywhere in the world.”

 
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