Greg Smith elected chair of APPG on Road Freight and Logistics

MP Greg Smith has been elected as the new chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Road Freight and Logistics.

The MP for Buckingham, and member of the Transport Select Committee succeeds former Roads Minister Sir Mike Penning MP who formed the group in 2019 to ensure that the needs and challenges of the essential UK haulage and logistics sector are heard and supported in parliament. 

As a result of his appointment as vice-chairman of the Conservative Party, Sir Mike has stood down as Chair of the APPG with immediate effect.

Smith has confirmed that the group will launch an inquiry on fuel duty and its impact on the haulage industry and its customers. The inquiry will focus on whether the Government should take further action including the introduction of an essential user rebate.

Smith said: “I am delighted to have been elected as the new chair of the APPG on Road Freight and Logistics. The UK haulage and logistics sector play a central role in making sure that our country runs around the clock, with 89% of all goods transported by land in Great Britain moved directly by road.

“It is crucial that as parliamentarians we work to support and challenge this vital industry and that necessary policy measures are taken to ensure the future of the UK haulage and logistics industry.”

Outgoing chair Rt Hon Sir Mike Penning MP said: “All too often hauliers are the unsung heroes of the British economy and the work of the APPG will be vital in ensuring that the Government responds and meets the very real challenges that the sector continues to face.”