Business group Logistics UK has launched its Election Manifesto, calling for the UK’s next Government to appoint a Minister for Logistics and Supply Chain if “future growth is to be driven” across the economy.
The manifesto was aimed at political parties as they prepare for the next general election, with chief executive David Wells stressing that focusing on investment and growth in the logistics industry would “bring dividends” for the UK’s whole economy.
Wells said: “Innovative, integrated infrastructure backed by a national logistics network will deliver efficiencies and opportunities that can benefit us all. Giving logistics a voice at the heart of Government would ensure that the needs of industry and business are heard, and that our sector can work with Government to drive up the country’s productivity.”
Logistics UK data shows strength of economy depends on logistics sector
Alongside the publication of its manifesto, Logistics UK also released new survey data showing that fewer than a third of adults think the Government is not doing enough to “support this vital sector”. The survey of over 2,000 adults, carried out by Ipsos, revealed that four in five adults agree that the strength of the UK’s economy depends on having an efficient logistics sector.
“The public understands how vital logistics is and, rightly, does not think the Government is doing enough to support the industry,” said Wells. “Our sector, which services every part of the UK’s economy, would deliver up to £7.9 billion per year in productivity-led growth if backed by the right Government policies, as well as creating jobs and trading opportunities both domestically and overseas.
“The establishment of a cross-Whitehall Logistics Productivity Forum, led by a dedicated logistics and supply chain Government Minister, would ensure that benefits from our sector can be delivered to the whole economy.”
The new Manifesto, titled ‘Unleashing the power of logistics to drive growth across the whole economy‘, will be distributed to all political parties ahead of the General Election, with the request that its policy proposals be incorporated into the parties’ own manifestos as they begin campaigning.
According to Logistics UK, the sector would like to see:
- Skills partnerships and reforms to funding models to ensure a continued pipeline of talent is attracted into the sector, with continued support for the Generation Logistics campaign
- Innovative and integrated infrastructure, backed by investment in a national logistics network
- A fair transition to a green economy, underpinned by an agreed roadmap to net zero, depending on the availability of technology, infrastructure investment, regulatory reform and tax incentives
- Backing for trade as a driver of innovation and productivity, with reduced border friction through new and expanded trading relationships with Europe and the rest of the world.
Wells concluded: “Logistics businesses operate on particularly narrow margins, with limited funds currently available for investment in new technologies.
“We continue to press for a dynamic mechanism for Fuel Duty to be introduced, with tax incentives for the use and production of alternative low carbon fuels, to keep business costs down and ensure that the sector can invest effectively in a green future.”
