Setting out the government’s planned laws as part of the state opening of Parliament, the King said improved trading relations were vital for the country’s economic security and for lowering prices.
“My ministers will introduce legislation to take advantage of new trading opportunities, including a bill to strengthen ties with the European Union,” he said.
“My government will also support the economic security of British businesses. Legislation will be introduced to tackle late payments and to reduce the burden of unnecessary regulation through innovation.”
Logistics UK said the announced European Partnership Bill would ease trade with the continent: “Our members are critical to every trading move between the UK and the EU, our closest trading partner, but have been hampered since the UK’s departure from the trading bloc by greater administrative red tape that has slowed processes and increased costs,” said Ben Fletcher, Logistics UK chief executive.
“Any delay at the border adds time and cost to every transaction – costs which impact the supply chain and, ultimately, the bottom line.”
The RHA described the commitment to tackle late payments as “hugely welcome”.
MD Richard Smith said: “We’ll continue working with government to keep cash flowing through the road freight sector – specifically in these difficult times.
“Growth is a central theme, and we’re clear that road freight and logistics is key to delivering it.
“The regulatory system needs to support, not hinder, growth. We hope the Police Reform Bill will create a more streamlined national system for the transportation of abnormal loads.”