FTA spells out freight haulage expectations to Kelly
Date: 25 July 2007
The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has written to the new transport secretary, Ruth Kelly, spelling out what it expects the government to do to help the freight transport industry in the UK.
FTA head Theo de Pencier outlined a series of expectations, including understanding and respecting the role and importance of logistics and the supply chain.
The government also needs to help the industry overcome the challenges that will be posed in the near future by a 30 per cent increase in imports and a 20 per cent rise in road traffic. "Congestion is the curse of the UK supply chain," de Pencier notes.
As well as this, Ms Kelly needs to focus on "long-term, sustainable and stable financing for transport infrastructure projects" and developing "integrated and sustainable port policies".
Also, air quality improvements, carbon reduction and road safety must all be addressed with advanced technology, and the logistics industry must be able to operate collections and deliveries in urban and rural areas.
"An efficient supply chain underpins the economy and makes a real contribution not only to the wealth of the nation, but to the lifestyle and comfort of the whole population," de Pencier concluded.
"UK transport and distribution is a success story that should be recognised, celebrated and assisted. Ruth Kelly and her colleagues have a massive responsibility to support the freight transport industry and FTA and its members wish her well in this challenging role."
Ruth Kelly became transport secretary when new prime minister Gordon Brown undertook his first Cabinet reshuffle.
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