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Today's (22 November 2023) Autumn Statement contains encouraging signs for logistics businesses looking to drive recovery in the economy, but according to business group Logistics UK, the detail of the Chancellor’s proposals will show whether or not the industry will see real changes as a result. Speaking about today’s speech, David Wells OBE, Logistics UK’s Chief Executive, says:
“The decision to make the current full expensing allowance for capital expenditure permanent is a welcome step that will support logistics businesses with long-term planning and investment. Our members are keen to identify if this change will include the cost of acquiring leased or hired vehicles, as well as those purchased outright. However, to support decarbonisation of commercial vehicle fleets, this allowance needs to go further to be able to be used to cover the cost of installing the energy infrastructure required to help the industry decarbonise, as our research shows this could amount to an outlay of up to £1 million per site – a prohibitive charge which will hinder the industry’s shift to net zero.”
News that the planning system is to be streamlined has also been welcomed by the business group, which has been pressing for changes to be made to enable logistics businesses to plan more efficiently for some time.
“Since our industry supplies every sector of the economy, it is vital that logistics is included as part of the overall planning process, not as a bolt-on afterthought,” continues Wells. “We will continue to press government to keep us at the heart of decision-making when it comes to business investment and development.” Read more
Source: LOGISTICS UK
