The appointment of a dedicated Minister for Logistics and Supply Chain is among the actions that should be taken by the next UK Government, according to Logistics UK.
In what is expected to be a General Election year, the industry body has published its own manifesto of policies it would like to see political parties adopting.
As well as the ministerial appointment, other items on the manifesto include creating skills partnerships and reforming funding models to ensure a continued pipeline of talent is attracted into the sector, with continued support for the Generation Logistics campaign.
Logistics UK also wants to see ‘innovative and integrated’ infrastructure, backed by investment in a national logistics network, alongside ‘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.
It also wants to see ‘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.
Logistics UK chief executive David Wells said: “Whether manufacturing or retail, healthcare or education, every part of our economy relies upon logistics to provide all the goods needed to generate business and growth.
“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.”
