CILT UK: Transport, logistics and the supply chain is pivotal to so many issues voters care about

 The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in the UK – CILT(UK) ­­– has published a comprehensive manifesto request outlining policy priorities and recommendations for the future of the UK’s transport, logistics and supply chain sector ahead of the 2024 General Election.

Created by experts from across the transport,  logistics and supply chain sector, the manifesto request stresses the need for long-term funding commitments, local decision-making and policies to achieve net zero emissions across all transport modes.

The document argues that limiting spending on transport would reduce productivity and tax revenues. It calls for stable, long-term funding settlements for rail infrastructure and services. The manifesto request also argues local authorities should be given more autonomy over local transport decisions, while still coordinating with national networks.

Achieving net zero carbon emissions across aviation, shipping, rail and road is highlighted as an urgent priority. CILT(UK) recommends government support for industry-led initiatives to develop electric and alternative fuel vehicles, renewable energy charging infrastructure and incentives to shift freight from road to more carbon-efficient rail and maritime routes.

CILT(UK) also emphasises the need to develop skills and training to support the transition to electric transport and new supply chain roles.

Specific policy actions recommended for the next government’s first 18 months include: requiring local planners to enable sustainable transport options, exploring alternative road taxation models, providing funding to improve bus and coach networks, implementing rail ticketing reform, and supporting private sector investment in rail freight.

“Transport, logistics and the supply chain is pivotal to so many issues voters care about – jobs, communities, climate change, air quality. That’s why transport policy deserves serious debate in the run-up to the election. We hope this document can help raise the level of discussion and help guide the next government in developing prudent, far-sighted policies that deliver a world-class 21st century transport system for the UK,” Daniel Parker-Klein, Director of Policy and Communications at CILT(UK) said.

The full CILT(UK) pre-election manifesto request is available here.