Why automotive needs to engage with government on new legislation

As the automotive sector moves through a period of huge change, it’s important that its voice is heard.

It’s a key issue facing the automotive sector; the need to engage with policy makers and ensure that the sector's views are considered when new legislation is being developed. To support this work, the IMI collaborates with the Industry and Parliamentary Trust (IPT), a UK-based charity that facilitates dialogue and collaboration between parliamentarians and businesses.

The IPT was established in 1974 to build bridges between parliament and industry, and to promote understanding and collaboration between the two. Over the years, the IPT has worked with businesses and organizations from a range of sectors, providing opportunities for leaders to work alongside MPs and gain insight into the legislative process.

Working together, the IPT and IMI seek to inform policy makers about the key issues facing the automotive sector. This includes providing evidence and insights on the impact of proposed legislation, as well as raising awareness of the opportunities and challenges facing the sector in a rapidly changing global landscape.

To achieve this, the IPT offer a range of programs and events, such as placements for parliamentarians within business sectors to work alongside industry and gain insight into the challenges faced. This enables them to build relationships with those working in business, share their perspectives on key issues, and help to shape policy decisions that are beneficial to the sector.

The IPT also organises events and briefings on topical issues, bringing together MPs and business leaders to discuss key challenges and opportunities facing industry. This enables them to share knowledge and expertise, and to identify areas where collaborative action can help to support the growth and success of the sector. The IMI actively engages with automotive technology focused events, but also with a wider range of subjects, such as employment, equality, and infrastructure.

In addition to informing policy makers, the IPT and IMI work to develop legislation that is effective, proportionate, and reflective of the needs of the automotive sector. This involves providing evidence and insights on the potential impact of proposed legislation, and working to ensure that the views of businesses and other stakeholders are considered.

Overall, the collaboration between the IPT and IMI plays an important role in promoting relationships and understanding between the automotive sector and parliamentarians. By informing policy makers and developing legislation that reflects the needs of the sector, the IPT and IMI help to ensure that the automotive industry can continue to contribute to the UK's economic growth and social well-being. As a member of the IMI, you are part of this effort to shape policy decisions and ensure that the automotive sector is represented at the highest levels of government.

Hayley Pells is Policy Manager at the Institute of the Motor Industry