Written evidence submitted by techUK (SRI0056)

Overview

The way that we work is intrinsically linked to the patterns and needs of our transport system. Yet, the relationship between the future of work and the future of transport is underexplored in policy and wider discourse.

techUK, the UK’s technology trade association, argues that unpacking this dynamic link in an in-depth inquiry would start an important public conversation while ensuring the long-term future of the transport sector in funding, policy, and regulation.

Context

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how and when we travel to work. The Department for Transport’s research shows a long-term desire for remote working and low levels of interest in pre-COVID commuting routines.[1]

At the same time, technology is enabling people to work in new digital environments, reducing our need to leave home to have meaningful and productive interactions.[2]

Public transport ridership has decreased as a result, causing previously viable transport routes to become ‘endangered’ or unviable altogether, forcing Governmental intervention[3].

In addition, without Government support, shifting commuter patterns may force people to turn to less sustainable travel options such as private vehicles if transport systems cannot continue to be relied upon to serve the population’s needs[4].

The role of technology

In the future, Web 3.0 technologies including Alternative Reality/Virtual Reality, Digital Twins, AI, and Machine Learning, could transform work and travel as we know it.

By blending the virtual and physical, we could unlock new opportunities and business models that drive productivity throughout the economy, while encouraging sustainable choices.[5]

Why is this important?

Policy intervention is necessary within the transport sector to deal with long-term transformation goals as well as short-term challenges.

For example, as commuter habits become embedded, Government may find itself pressured into further supporting the funding and running of services.

Looking ahead, the introduction of transformative technologies may require regulatory and legal reform, demanding attention from policymakers and regulators.

Currently, this issue is not a priority nor a focus for the Government as it deals with immediate challenges in the economy and environment, however, we feel a select committee inquiry into such trends will help to safeguard the transport sector’s resilience and global competitiveness much further into the future.

Questions to address

The inquiry will attempt to answer the following:

➢ What has been the impact of changing working habits on transport patterns and the commercial conditions surrounding the sector?

➢ What will working in Britain look like in 2030 and how will people use transport to support them?

➢ What technologies will be embedded within transport systems and how can Government prepare for their implementation through policy and regulation? ➢ What are the wider implications for productivity, growth, and the environment if we do not act now?

techUK, as the voice of the UK’s technology sector, would be delighted to provide expertise from within our organisation and across our extensive membership of over 950 companies to help address these important questions.

February

Endnotes