Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the number of drivers available for the logistics industry; what steps they are taking to address any shortage of such drivers; and what plans they have to improve the supply of trained technicians and mechanics able to work on heavy goods vehicles.

The labour shortages in the sector are longstanding.

We are working with the Department for Work and Pensions and Jobcentre Plus to ensure that jobseekers can find employment or training in the industry as quickly as possible.

We are also working with the Department for Education in supporting the logistics sector make the most of the opportunities provided through the apprenticeship levy.

There is a range of Government backed apprenticeships, delivered by training providers and manufacturers, encouraging training of technicians and mechanics to work on heavy goods vehicles.