Ministerial Changes at the Department for Transport
The recent ministerial reshuffle on 13th November has brought about significant changes in the Department for Transport (DfT) leadership. While there is continuity in some key positions, what impact these ministerial changes, less than a year before general elections, will have on some key policies is yet to be seen. PACTS will be closely following the developments at the DfT, providing comprehensive analysis and timely updates.
Here is a brief overview of the current Ministerial team at DfT.
- Secretary of State – Mark Harper: Continuing in his role, Mark Harper remains as the Transport Secretary. Appointed on 25 October 2022, Mark Harper’s ongoing tenure is expected to ensure stability and continuity in the Department’s approach to transport policies.
- Minister of State (Rail) – Huw Merriman: There has been no change in this position. Huw Merriman, serving as the Minister of State at the DfT since 27 October 2022, brings his experience from the Transport Select Committee, where he was the Chair from 2020 to 2022. His responsibilities include overseeing rail transformation and reform, infrastructure, High Speed 2, the Integrated Rail Plan, Northern Powerhouse Rail, international rail, rail freight, and rail accessibility. He also focuses on regions and devolution, including Levelling Up and London transport issues like Crossrail and Transport for London.
- Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Transport Technology and Decarbonization) – Anthony Browne: Appointed on 13 November 2023, Anthony Browne has replaced Jesse Norman MP, his background as the first Prime Minister’s Anti-Fraud Champion and his tenure as the Chief Executive Officer for the British Banking Association provide him with a unique perspective. His responsibilities include aviation, transport decarbonization, air quality, technology (autonomous vehicles, drones, e-scooters), space, skills, science and research, corporate affairs, and aviation accessibility.
- Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Roads) – Guy Opperman: Guy Opperman has been appointed as the new Minister for Roads and Local Transport, replacing Richard Holden MP. Opperman, who took office on 13 November 2023, previously held positions in the Department for Work and Pensions and served as a Government Whip. His portfolio includes roads maintenance and infrastructure delivery, road safety, motoring agencies, local transport (buses, taxis, light rail), active travel (cycling and walking), issues related to Kent, EES and borders, haulage, the Future of Freight, women’s safety, and cross-cutting lead as the Ministerial Disability Champion.
- Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Maritime) – Lord Davies of Gower: Replacing Baroness Vere, Lord Davies was appointed on 14 November 2023. Previously he was a Lord in Waiting, he is now responsible for primary legislation in the Lords, maritime issues, security (including Ukraine), civil contingencies, international affairs, union connectivity, secondary legislation, and maritime accessibility.
PACTS continues to monitor the evolving landscape at the DfT, and the impact of these ministerial changes on crucial policies will undoubtedly shape the future of transportation in the lead-up to general elections.
