British lawmakers have begun a significant examination of the skills crisis facing the nation’s transport manufacturing industries, with industry leaders from major sectors providing testimony about workforce challenges and technological transitions.
The Transport Committee, a cross-party group of backbench MPs from the House of Commons, held its first evidence session this week as part of a broader inquiry into manufacturing capability. According to committee documents, the investigation aims to identify how Britain can strengthen its skills base across critical transport sectors.
Industry Leaders Testify on Workforce Challenges
During the October 22 session, MPs questioned representatives from automotive, aerospace and maritime industries about the evolving skills required as these sectors adopt new technologies. Sources indicate the committee focused particularly on identifying the most acute skills shortages and forecasting how these gaps might develop in coming years.
The morning session featured testimony from Matthew Ogg of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, Balaji Srimoolanathan from ADS Group, Tom Chant of the Society of Maritime Industries, and Jamie Cater from Make UK. Industry analysts suggest these organizations represent the backbone of Britain’s transport manufacturing ecosystem.
Later testimony came from academic and industry heavyweights including Professor Chris Brace from the University of Bath’s Institute for Advanced Automotive Propulsion Systems, Dr Benjamin Silverstone from Warwick Manufacturing Group, and Oriel Petry, senior vice president at Airbus UK. The presence of Airbus leadership notably highlights the aerospace sector’s significance to UK manufacturing.
Broader Implications for UK Industrial Strategy
According to reports from the session, MPs showed particular interest in how businesses can develop skills within their existing workforces and supply chains. The inquiry also examined whether recent government reforms to the apprenticeship system will effectively address sector needs.
The timing of this investigation appears strategic, coming as the Department for Transport faces increasing pressure to support domestic manufacturing capabilities amid global competition. Industry observers note that all three sectors—automotive, aerospace and maritime—are undergoing significant technological transitions that demand new skill sets.
Meanwhile, the committee has published written evidence submissions received during its initial call for evidence, providing additional context about the challenges facing motor vehicle manufacturers and other transport sectors. These documents reportedly outline specific workforce gaps and training needs identified by industry stakeholders.
The inquiry represents one of the most comprehensive examinations of transport manufacturing skills in recent years, coming at a critical juncture for UK industrial policy. As the global race for technological leadership intensifies, analysts suggest that Britain’s ability to cultivate specialized manufacturing talent could determine its competitive position in key transport sectors for decades to come.
Further sessions are expected as the committee continues its work, with additional testimony likely from government officials, training providers and other industry representatives. The investigation’s findings could significantly influence future skills policy and funding decisions affecting Britain’s vital transport manufacturing base.
