The Government announcement that it will be “stepping up to a new, active role” in industrial policy is good news, providing that its objectives can be fulfilled. 

FTA’s head of national and regional policy Christopher Snelling said: “Industry is especially reliant on logistics – from getting raw material and components in, to getting finished products to markets – here and around the world. 

“Any successful future for UK industry in a post-Brexit world will have to involve improving logistics connections in the UK.  This means improving our transport infrastructure to reduce congestion and unreliability, and increased access to rail and water freight. It will mean helping to reverse the skills shortages within the logistics sector, through investment in specialist colleges and other training opportunities including apprenticeships.  And it means ensuring the UK is able to trade with Europe and the rest of the world without delays or financial burdens. 

“The Prime Minister has identified the right issues and FTA is pleased she announced this focus on the needs of industry.  But as always with Government pronouncements, the real test is delivery – will the Government make the investment necessary to make Britain the globally competitive base for industry that we all want it to be? 

“FTA is calling on government to work closely with the freight and logistics industry to ensure that these plans can be delivered, on time and to the benefit of British businesses trading in Europe and across the globe.” 

To enable shippers, forwarders, logistics providers and supply chain managers to meet the challenges which Brexit will pose, FTA is holding a one-day conference to help maintain business continuity and “Keep Britain Trading.” 

To be held at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre on 15 March 2017, the event will provide delegates with the opportunity to learn more about the terms of the UK’s departure from the EU, help to shape FTA’s influence on government and European institutions, and participate in the development of future trade deals.