Freight leaders call for Logistics Minister

As one of the UK's leading independent freight and logistics companies, Davies Turner welcomes the news that the heads of 11 trade associations have written to the leaders of the UK’s and devolved nations’ main political parties urging them to appoint a dedicated minister for logistics with cross-departmental responsibilities.

The consignees include BIFA director general, Steve Parker, together with David Wells, Richard Ballantyne, Geraint Evans and Amanda Franci  – the chief executives of, respectively, Logistics UK , the British Ports Association, UK Major Ports Group and the Association of International Courier and Express Services.

They highlighted the role logistics can play in boosting growth and productivity, if backed by the right policies and a dedicated minister supported by a Cabinet Office structure to support delivery across Whitehall. The logistics sector generates £163 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) and contributes significant tax revenue for the UK.

We wholeheartedly agree with Phil Roe, president of Logistics UK, and chair of the cross-industry group, who said: “A dedicated logistics minister working across Whitehall would give us the voice to shape plans and maximise the benefits which logistics can deliver.”

The letter also calls for coordinated action on policy areas including planning and infrastructure; sustainability and decarbonisation; skills and trade.

Phil Roe added: “As a sector, logistics has the ability to transform the way other industries operate, and could deliver up to £7.9 billion in productivity-led growth per year by 2030. To do this, our industry needs a focus from government, combined with radical planning reform, long-term infrastructure investment and a firm commitment to increase transport capacity nationwide.”

For more information about Davies Turner’s freight forwarding and logistics services, please contact sales@daviesturner.co.uk or visit the relevant pages of this website