Mark Harper becomes new Transport Secretary

Another month another Transport Secretary; new Prime Minister Rishi Sunak yesterday appointed Forest of Dean MP Mark Harper to the role.

Replacing Anne-Marie Trevelyan, who was short-lived Prime Minister Liz Truss’s choice, Mark Harper has little notable history when it comes to active travel, but does have a voting record that appears to favour low tax motoring and keeping public transport both privatised and expensive. On climate issues he appears pro fracking and has generally voted against financial incentives for low carbon emission infrastructure and against measures to prevent climate change.

Encouraging to those in the wheeling community, he has worked as a Minister for Disabled People. His own website still features case work on supporting disabled people.

A former Chief Whip in the Conservative Party, he has previously been responsible for discipline in the political party, as well as formerly holding the role of Immigration Minister, a post he resigned from after it came to light that his cleaner did not have the appropriate permits to work in the UK.

Harper Tweeted after the announcement: “Delighted to be appointed Secretary of State for Transport by Prime Minister @RishiSunak

“Transport affects us all, and I can’t wait to tackle the challenges we face so we can deliver for communities across our United Kingdom.”

Former Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has now been appointed to the role of Business Secretary.