Thank you to everyone who joined us at the UK Major Ports Group Annual Reception this week. Your commitment, despite long queues and challenging weather, speaks volumes about the strength, resilience, and energy of our sector.

This year’s parliamentary engagement was particularly encouraging. We were delighted to welcome more than 40 Parliamentarians, along with representatives from the vast majority of the UK’s coastal communities. Their presence is a clear signal of the growing recognition of the crucial role that ports play in the nation’s prosperity.

We extend our sincere thanks to James Wild MP, Keir Mather MP, Polly Billington MP, and our Chair, Henrik Pedersen, for their insightful contributions and continued support.

A consistent message resonated throughout the event: ports sit at the heart of the UK’s future growth. From driving decarbonisation and attracting global investment to creating new opportunities across all four nations, the importance of our ports has never been greater.

Realising this potential requires the right foundations. We need a planning system that enables progress, reliable and affordable energy, and transport links that keep the UK moving. Delivering these essentials depends on strong and genuine partnership with government.

At the centre of all this are our coastal communities. Ports are often their largest employers and represent their biggest future opportunity. We remain committed to working closely with local leaders, businesses, and partners to ensure these communities continue to thrive.

Thank you once again to everyone who joined us and helped make this year’s reception such a success.