The IMI's Policy Watch - May 2023

Heavy Vehicle Skills concerns

“It is crucial that urgent action is taken to address the pressing issues we face, as they have far-reaching implications for the economy, road safety, and the logistics sector as a whole. “

Steve Nash, CEO, IMI

Westminster Engagement

Open letter to the Secretary of State for Education Open Letter from Steve Nash highlights concerns over heavy vehicle maintenance and repair landscape, impacting economy and road safety. The letter can be found here.

?APPG Apprenticeships – Held on the 16th of May, the IMI attended the APPG to join the discussion examining how industry sees the provision of apprenticeships evolving over the coming years, with a variety of providers, the session looked to diversification in their apprenticeship offers to accommodate a growing and evolving economy.

APPG Future of Employability – Held on the 17th of May, the IMI served on the advisory board of this APPG providing parliamentarians with a report defining employability through an automotive lens. The common theme from the report appears to be prove the case for work experience – there is a widening perception gap between those with a connection to the industry and those outside of it which is proving more and more difficult to broach.

Industry and Parliamentary Trust – The session with parliamentarians focused on diversity, and how it can be improved for access to professions. The IMI joined representatives from the SMMT and other sectors outside of automotive, best practices regarding greater socio-economic background diversity was hot topic, focusing on how education can empower social mobility.

Regulation and Reform

Department for Transport (DfT) Open Consultation - The Heavy Vehicle Testing Review aims to improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and user-friendliness of the testing process while maintaining the highest standards of safety and environmental protection. The review has identified several key areas for improvement, such as updating testing standards, streamlining the process, improving testing quality and consistency, using digital technologies, and strengthening enforcement of standards. Submissions are due 9th June 2023.

Welsh Government - A key element of the Co-operation Agreement (2021) between the Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru is the commitment to review the vocational qualifications on offer to learners and employers. The review of vocational qualifications in Wales has been published and can be found here.

The Policy Exchange -The respected think tank’s current report sheds light on the pressing issue of undersupply in high-quality apprenticeships despite the strong demand, with a significant decline in apprenticeship starts observed, particularly among young people, economically disadvantaged backgrounds, SMEs, and regions outside London. The Apprenticeship Levy's lack of transparency and the mismatch between raised funds and actual spending further exacerbate the problem, calling for urgent attention and reform. The report can be found here.

Longer Lorries – Government have stated that the UK economy boosted by ￡1.4 billion as longer lorries roll out on roads. Legislation change allowing longer lorries and longer semi-trailers on roads will save 70,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide from being released into the air. More information can be found here.

Business

Competition and Markets Authority – The Competition Act 1998 (Motor Vehicle Agreements Block Exemption) Order 2023 (MVBEO) will come into effect on the 1st June 2023. The government responded to this consultation outlining the technical drafting issues with the Motor Vehicle Agreements Block Exemption Order raised by respondents and how DBT intends to proceed. The guidance was last updated on 2nd May 2023.

Shortage Occupation List – The shortage occupation list is relevant to attracting people into the UK by recognising specific professions and job roles that are in high demand and experiencing a shortage of skilled workers. By including these occupations on the list, the UK government can streamline visa processes and offer attractive incentives to individuals with the necessary skills, making it easier for them to enter and work in the country. This helps address skill gaps, promote economic growth, and meet the needs of industries facing a shortage of qualified professionals. Submissions to the Migration Advisory Committee are to be made by Friday 26th May 2023.

Newhaven Business Grants Programme - Grant funding for SME businesses in Newhaven investing in capital items. More information can be found here.