The road transport and logistics sector has urged new Prime Minister Andy Burnham to place freight and supply chain infrastructure at the centre of his economic growth plans.
Responding to Burnham’s appointment as Prime Minister today (20 July), the RHA, Logistics UK and the UK Warehousing Association (UKWA) called for greater government support for the sectors they represent.
Richard Smith, RHA MD, said the association looked forward to working with the new government and called for measures to support investment across the haulage, coach and van sectors, and for a National Freight Strategy.
He said: “Our industry is critical national infrastructure that quite literally keeps the country moving. And that’s why we urge the PM to deliver solutions which empower the haulage, coach and van sectors to help stimulate economic growth, and support businesses to invest and thrive.
“We remind the PM that 85% of all goods in the UK are transported by road freight at some point.
“So, a much needed and clear National Freight Strategy would be a key enabler to unlock economic potential both regionally and nationally.”
Ben Fletcher, Logistics UK chief executive, said the organisation wanted to work with Burnham’s government to support industrial growth and ensure logistics remained central to the UK economy.
Fletcher pointed to the role of transport investment in the success of Greater Manchester, where Burnham served as mayor before becoming Prime Minister.
“Manchesterism has been a great example of how an economy and city can thrive with a clear plan that puts transport at its heart,” he said.
“Nothing moves without logistics and our sector will be vital to the UK’s reindustrialisation and growth plans.
“It underpins the economy, supporting businesses, homes and public services, employing 8% of the UK workforce and contributing £175 billion in GVA each year.”
Fletcher added: “Our sector’s hubs and workforce are embedded in communities across the country, providing skilled jobs, rewarding careers and enabling businesses to trade, domestically and internationally.
“As the government continues its drive for industrial growth and devolution, logistics has a key role to play in ensuring investment translates into improved standards of living and opportunities in every region and nation of the UK.”
UKWA chief executive Clare Bottle also welcomed Burnham’s focus on reindustrialisation but called for Burnham to give greater recognition to the role warehousing plays in the economy.
She said: “In order to achieve economic growth, he must recognise warehousing as essential infrastructure.
“That means no further increases in business rates, faster progress on apprenticeships, and a planning system that gives us the right warehouses in the right places.”
Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) welcomed Burnham to his new role as Prime Minister.
He hailed the Labour Party for demonstrating its commitment to automotive manufacturing through the industrial strategy, adding that these foundations will enable the sector to be a powerful engine for growth.
He added: “There remain many challenges to the industry, both at home and abroad, but if we strengthen our competitiveness and provide greater support for the transition to net zero, we can drive reindustrialisation and economic renewal in every region and nation of Britain.
“We look forward to working with the Prime Minister and his team to realise that opportunity.”
Microlise chief executive Nadeem Raza said Burnham’s understanding of the role of transport in supporting economic growth provided an opportunity to give the sector greater long-term certainty.
He said operators were already investing in new technology, with sustainability and digitalisation becoming increasingly important priorities across the industry.
He added: “Technology has a vital role to play in helping operators improve efficiency, strengthen compliance, enhance road safety and reduce emissions.
“By supporting investment in digital innovation and modern transport infrastructure, the new government has an opportunity to help create a more productive, resilient and sustainable logistics sector that benefits businesses, consumers and the wider economy.”
