SMMT urges government investment in transport manufacture

Date: 25/11/2011

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has called on the government to ensure investment and growth in the transport sector during the run-up to the chancellor's Autumn Statement.

In a letter to George Osborne, the society called on the government to use next week's statement as a means of ensuring competitiveness across the automotive industry and the wider economy.

Its proposals included more support for training to improve the pool of skilled workers open to the industry, as well as greater access to affordable finance for small businesses.

One area where particular support is required is low-carbon manufacturing, particularly with the focus on electric vehicles and other such technologies as a means for the transport sector to meet its emissions reduction targets.

Paul Everitt, chief executive o the SMMT, said: "The chancellor must take this opportunity to position the UK as a prime location for manufacturing and incentivise private sector investment in R&D, skills and capital equipment."

Climate change targets have put an increasing focus on greener manufacturing methods for transport, with firms being urged to consider introducing more electric cars into their fleets.

Posted by Nick Anderson