Transport Cuts Are No Defence

The suggestion, widely reported in the media, that transport capital spending could be cut to increase the UK defence budget fails to recognise the strategic role infrastructure fulfils in times of conflict, according to Ben Fletcher Chief Executive of business group Logistics UK:

"Both defence and transport infrastructure are fundamental to the UK's security and economic strength, and it would be a mistake to frame budget allocation decisions as a simple choice between the two.

"Efficient logistics depends on reliable transport networks, enabling goods to move quickly and reliably across the country and through our international gateways. The transport networks that underpin businesses, communities and public services, are the same networks that are critical for the defence industries to be able to increase production, and the country will need for moving resources during any future mobilisation.

"It is vital that the UK invests in defence to enhance its ability to respond to an increasingly uncertain world. As government finalises its spending plans, we urge it to remain committed to infrastructure investment and to the findings of the 2025 Strategic Defence Review, which rightly highlights the importance of building national resilience in partnership with industry.

"Improving the performance of the UK's transport network supports the logistics industry, strengthens the economy and helps ensure people, equipment and supplies can move effectively during times of both peace and conflict."

Logistics UK is one of the UK's biggest business groups, representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping the UK trading, and more than seven million people directly employed in the making, selling and moving of goods. With decarbonisation, 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. Logistics UK supports, shapes and stands up for safe and efficient logistics, and is the only business group which represents the whole industry, with members from the road, rail, water and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers whose businesses depend on the efficient movement of goods. For more information about the organisation and its work, please visit logistics.org.uk