23 June 2025: The Government has published its Industrial Strategy today, setting out to plans to create economic growth through strategic support and investment in eight key sectors: Advanced Manufacturing; Clean Energy Industries; Creative Industries; Defence; Digital and Technologies; Financial Services;  Life Sciences; and Professional and Business Services.

On the Strategy, Max Sugarman, Chief Executive of ITS UK, said: “It is positive to see, ‘Digital and Technologies’ listed as a key sector within the Industrial Strategy, which the Government will prioritise through investment and support, but transport could have played a far more prominent role within the document. Even though transport is not one of the key sectors listed, we do believe that there is a real opportunity for the Government to drive economic growth, investment and jobs through the use of data and technology in transport.

“What is welcome to see is the inclusion of £36 million to support smart data schemes, following the passing of the Data (Use and Access) Act in Parliament last week. As we set out in our response to the Industrial Strategy consultation, Invest 2035, developing smart data schemes in transport – whereby data is made portable across different operators and users – could be transformational in providing the travelling public with clear, real-time information that allows for seamless journeys across modes.

“We also welcome plans in the Industrial Strategy to expand the work on standards for self-driving vehicles, into the maritime, rail and aviation sectors. In our response to Invest 2035, we specifically outlined how automation, and improved data sharing in freight and maritime sectors, alongside leveraging technology in the strategic road and rail networks, can increase efficiency and reduce costs in the movement of key imports and exports. We look forward to working with the Government to see how applications of automated technology can be developed in these sectors.” 

Notes to Editors:

1. Read ITS UK’s response to the Industrial Strategy Consultation: Invest 2035 here.
2. The UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy
3. About ITS UK: Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK) is the voice of the transport technology industry. ITS UK provides a national platform to support the roll out of technology for a cleaner, safer and more effective transport network, both at home and abroad. We support our 180+ members – from both the private and public sector, and covering all sizes and disciplines – through advocacy to policy makers, connecting people and organisations, promoting the industry overseas and supporting innovation across the intelligent transport ecosystem. www.its-uk.org