Heidi Skinner, Head of Policy & Public Affairs Manager at FTA, commented: “As the business organisation representing the logistics sector, FTA is pleased to see the Chancellor’s announcement of a further £2 billion for Brexit delivery in the Spending Review earlier today (4 September 2019). The logistics industry is acutely aware of the need for government to support UK transport infrastructure, particularly at a time of such uncertainty for British business; without this, supply chains cannot continue to run smoothly and deliver the vital goods that our hospitals, schools and supermarkets need. The efficient movement of freight in the UK is vital to the economy; it must not be stifled by inadequate infrastructure and a lack of capacity. To ensure delays and disruption are minimised and journey times remain reliable, it is of the utmost importance that links to our ports work as effectively as possible.

“We are also pleased to see the government’s strategy for an ‘infrastructure revolution’: a plan to rebuild our national infrastructure. Effective connectivity for all modes of transport is essential for UK trade and for meeting the needs of people and business. Ahead of the Budget later this year, FTA calls on HM Treasury to work closely with the logistics industry to ensure UK connectivity is prioritised.”

Efficient logistics is vital to keep Britain trading, directly having an impact on more than seven million people employed in the making, selling and moving of goods. With Brexit, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc.  A champion and challenger, FTA speaks to Government with one voice on behalf of the whole sector, with members from the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers.