The Labour government of Sir Keir Starmer lost its first cabinet member in November after transport secretary Louise Haigh was forced to step down. Haigh quit after revelations surfaced of a fraud conviction from a decade ago and has been replaced by Swindon South MP Heidi Alexander.
Alexander has experience in the transport field – she was a deputy mayor of London for transport from 2018-2021, and her appointment has been welcomed by the Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCIA).
MCIA CEO Tony Campbell said: “I congratulate the secretary of state for transport on her appointment and look forward to working closely with her over the coming months.
“I encourage her to view our sector as an opportunity. With decisive, swift action on long-neglected policy areas – such as licensing and vehicle regulation – supported by a pragmatic, open-minded approach to phase out – the government can achieve quick, impactful wins. For too long, successive governments have delayed progress on key issues for our industry. Now is the time to seize the opportunity, partner with industry, and leverage the powered light vehicle sector to deliver on your missions.
“By committing to supporting and updating the Action Plan, together we can secure a thriving, resilient future for iconic UK brands like Triumph, Royal Enfield, BSA, Norton, and CCM. With the right policy landscape, the government can support new, innovative businesses like Maeving, driving economic growth, boosting productivity, and creating high-skilled jobs.
“Simplifying user licensing to improve uptake of smaller, more energy efficient vehicles will accelerate the stagnating decarbonisation of road transport and slash congestion across the country. Modernising regulations will foster innovation, creating exciting new vehicle types that can transform urban and suburban mobility.
“The opportunities are endless, and the government has a willing partner in industry to make them a reality. All we need is a secretary of state ready to work with us.”