The new All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Women in Transport has held a launch reception with close to 200 senior representatives from across the transport sector.
We’re delighted to be providing secretariat support to the new APPG. The group will look at how to overcome the under-representation of women in transport, who currently make up only 18 per cent of the transport workforce, and promote best practice.
We will be supporting a programme of events and networking opportunities in Parliament to advance women in transport.
Speaking at the launch reception, our President, Camilla Ween, said “I am pleased to see the issue of addressing the under-representation of women climbing up the political agenda. As Secretariat for the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Women in Transport, we look forward to working with parliamentarians and the industry to sharpen focus on this important issue".
Ruth Cadbury MP, Chair of the APPG and Labour MP for Brentford and Isleworth said "As a cross-party parliamentary group, we will work with leaders of the transport sector to drive progress in improving gender diversity in this traditionally male dominated field. This will lead to an increase in skills, improved performance and a better service for customers.”
Mike Brown MVO, Commissioner for Transport for London (TfL) addressed the reception and outlined his commitment and initiatives to promote diversity at all levels within his workforce.
He said: “I am personally committed to increasing diversity and inclusion in the transport industry. Since the launch of the Women in Transport programme in 2014, female entrants to TfL's graduate and apprenticeship programmes have risen from 29 per cent to 40 per cent. I am looking forward to working with the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Women in Transport to encourage more people to consider the wide range of fantastic careers available in our industry so that our workforce reflects the people and communities we serve.”
Martin Howell, External Relations Director, Cubic Transportation System, who sponsored the event added: “Cubic are delighted to be supporting [Women in Transport] and the new All-Party Parliamentary Group for women in transport. As world leaders in intelligent travel, we would like to see more women choosing transport careers and we welcome the cross party support for this issue.”