Top six policy wins – 2025

1. Importance of logistics recognised in Modern Industrial Strategy

Following advocacy from Logistics UK, including a joint industry letter to the government and meetings with senior decision makers, a dedicated section on freight and logistics was included in the government’s Modern Industrial Strategy, recognising the sector’s importance to the UK economy and competitiveness. It also referenced Oxford Economic’s report, commissioned by Logistics UK, on the link between logistics performance and UK productivity.

2. Commitment to develop a new Freight Plan

In the Modern Industrial Strategy, the government confirmed that it would work with the industry on a new plan for freight and logistics, providing a key opportunity to strengthen the sector’s position. The Transport Secretary noted the plan would set out a vision-led strategy for Britain’s goods movement, moving beyond the traditional predict and provide approach. Logistics UK has consistently called for the government to have a coherent plan for logistics and has been engaging on areas of focus as the plan is developed, with publication expected early this year.

3. New Minister responsible for freight and borders

Following a government reshuffle, the Department for Transport (DfT) confirmed that Keir Mather MP had been appointed Minister for Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation with responsibility for freight and borders. This change signals the strategic importance of the logistics sector, with Logistics UK long calling for cross-departmental, dedicated logistics and supply chain ministerial representation. We consistently raised this ask when engaging with government, speaking at events, sharing manifestos and engaging in policy consultations.

4. Government confirms support for strategic infrastructure projects

The Chancellor of the Exchequer delivered a speech outlining the government’s plans for economic growth and confirmed support for a number of nationally significant infrastructure projects. The announcement formed part of the new 10-Year Infrastructure Strategy, which set out long-term plans to deliver and improve infrastructure and drive growth.

5. New maritime strategy published

The Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy outlines plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2050. Logistics UK has been calling for a new strategy to replace the 2019 Clean Maritime Plan and welcomed the announcement. Members have made it clear that government direction and support is needed to enable net zero shipping to become a reality.

6. EU Entry/Exit System (EES) to have a phased implementation

Following calls for a pragmatic approach, the EU’s new border checks, known as EES, had a phased introduction starting on 12 October. The checks require British and non-EU citizens to provide biometric data at all Schengen area entry and exit points. Rather than 100% checks being completed from day one, it was announced that a six-month phased implementation would be rolled out. Logistics UK advocated strongly for a staggered approach to the new biometric checks to be taken to prevent the logistics industry being adversely impacted.