Prime Minister sets out ambitious agenda for economic renewal, devolution and public service reform

The new Prime Minister set out an ambitious agenda today, focused on economic renewal, devolution and public service reform.

There was much of relevance to our sector — regional growth, local industrial strategies, infrastructure, apprenticeships and technical skills.

It was also good to see Rachel Taylor MP, Chair of the APPG for Road Freight and Logistics, raise directly the pressures facing logistics businesses.

The Prime Minister’s acknowledgement that the cost of doing business remains too high — and his commitment to take action — was particularly important.

For HGV, coach and van operators, those pressures are very real. Fuel, employment, energy and regulatory costs ultimately affect investment, growth and the cost of moving people and goods.

Road transport is not simply another sector asking for support. It is an enabler of economic growth. If we can reduce unnecessary costs, improve infrastructure, develop the skills we need and make devolution work for operators, the benefits will reach far beyond our industry.

There will, of course, be much more detail to come.

The RHA will continue to engage constructively with the new Government, offering evidence, practical solutions and collaboration — while making sure the voice of our members and the wider road transport industry is heard.