CBI calls for transport funding boost

The Confederation of British Industry has called on the government to boost local transport and infrastructure spending in its imminent spending review.

Chancellor Sajid Javid is due to present the review tomorrow (4th September). The CBI wants the government to follow through on commitments to deliver crucial large investment projects, including HS2, Crossrail and Northern Powerhouse Rail, deliver full fibre connectivity to the last 10 per cent of homes and businesses, and make the UK the world’s leading low carbon and innovative economy.

It also wants to government to subsidise the provision of rapid charge points to complete coverage of electric vehicles in the UK.

CBI chief economist Rain Newton-Smith, said: “For three years, Brexit has consumed everything on the political agenda, leaving much needed reforms and progress on domestic policy stuck on the side lines.

“The UK has the very best potential to become a high skilled, innovative, well-connected and sustainable nation fit to face the opportunities and challenges of the twenty-first century. The Spending Review is the time to put down the markers to make this happen, and put an end to inaction and inertia.”

By Malory Davies