What the sector and Government needs is a Logistics Minister

The new Government is rolling out its legislative agenda which presents an opportunity to work together to address challenges facing our sector. Government and industry can work closely to improve roads, plug skills gaps, tackle freight crime and get more clarity for businesses on the road to net zero.

Last week, we launched a new Blueprint document on this in which we’ve set out a series of recommendations and have stated the importance of road haulage, van and coach businesses to society as drivers of economic growth. We also outlined what we need from decision-makers to play our part in their mission to drive growth.As the largest dedicated UK trade association representing HGV, LGV and Coaches, we've consistently said that collaboration between industry and Government is vital. 

Collaboration is important in our combined industry campaigning efforts too. It’s vital that we and the other trade associations work together on the mutual issues our members face.

That’s why we formed the Abnormal Loads Group to co-ordinate efforts with other trade bodies aimed at tackling inconsistencies with the policing of abnormal loads. This ongoing work is serving our members well.

Earlier this year, we also joined with ten other logistics and road transport trade associations to work closer under the ‘Alliance of Logistics Trade Associations’ banner.

As part of this work, we recently called on the new Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer to appoint a dedicated minister for our sector.

With 98% of all food and agricultural products transported by road freight, the country is dependent on a thriving and efficient road transport sector. With record numbers of businesses struggling too due to increased cost pressures, businesses want to know that policy makers are listening to them.

Today we repeat our ask of Sir Keir Starmer to appoint a Logistics Minister that can tackle industry concerns and priorities head on.

Having a focused Minister working across departments in Government to co-ordinate relevant policy would be a bold move and important step from Government at this early stage. It would ensure that the needs of a crucial industry and businesses are heard and would help our sector work collaboratively with government to unlock its full potential to drive up productivity across the country.