Hat-trick for FTA as party conferences get the message

A consistently strong presence at the Lib Dem, Labour and Conservative party conferences has helped the Freight Transport Association (FTA) influence and build greater understanding from policy makers and MPs about the big transport issues.

FTA played a central role in managing the Transport Hub, which this year hosted 30 diverse events across the three main party conferences; covering subjects including freight, aviation taxation, sustainable transport, the future of rail and more. This year's panelists included transport ministers Theresa Villiers and Norman Baker; and TV motoring journalist Quentin Willson.

FTA's fringe event - 'The battle for transport priorities: Balancing affordable fuel, the deficit and the environment' - explored the tension between industrial growth, public resentment of higher fuel costs, the Government's need to reduce Britain's debt, and the growing challenge of fighting climate change.

Michael Webb, FTA's Head of Public Affairs, speaking after yesterday's event, said: “FTA has been delighted over the last three weeks to see politicians from all parties engaging with industry on the key issues affecting future transport.

“This week's Conservative event was no different, and we are confident the minister was given plenty of food for thought; not least on the economic case and public support for a reduction in fuel duty so clearly articulated by Quentin Willson during FTA's fringe events."

The Transport Hub enables each of its partner organisations to put their messages across to maximum effect while avoiding unwanted timetable clashes during the hectic party conference season.

It had an even wider reach this year in terms of Hub partners and their specialist areas of transport expertise.

This year's partners comprised FTA, Association of British Travel Agents, ACT TravelWise, Airport Operators Association, British Parking Association, Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, DHL, Kapsch TrafficCom and Keolis UK.