Geoff Hoon has been confirmed as the new transport secretary in the latest Cabinet reshuffle. Hoon, who was previously chief whip, replaces Ruth Kelly who resigned last week.
Theo de Pencier, chief executive of the Freight Transport Association (FTA), believes
Hoon is taking on the transport portfolio at a critical time for the logistics industry in light of the credit crunch, overseas competition and the high rates of fuel duty that are all taking their toll on an industry which keeps British business moving.
He says: "The FTA and its members will be looking to Hoon to show leadership and to value the vital role that logistics plays in delivering the UK's economy."
BVRLA director general John Lewis says: "Appointing a transport secretary with the status and reputation of Geoff Hoon demonstrates that the Labour leadership does take this role seriously.
"We hope he can keep up the momentum on improving road safety, and that he can provide some clarity on the Government's approach to road pricing."
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