Business, Forwarding, Freight News, Logistics

FTA issues shopping list to keep Britain trading

[ October 13, 2017   //   Chris ]

The Freight Transport Association is urging caution over suggestions in mid-October that the government might be ready to walk out of the EU talks.  Following publication of White Papers on trading and customs agreements to be implemented in the event of a ‘No Deal’ outcome to the ongoing EU talks, FTA has issued a list of conditions required to keep Britain trading:

The include: Customs systems big enough to cope with the 255 million additional declarations, including fast-track arrangements for approved traders, pre-clearance of goods and post-payment of duties to avoid detention in ports; learning support for the 185,000 UK businesses that currently trade solely with the EU and will need to learn how to do Customs declarations for the first time; frictionless arrangements for other EU countries; avoiding vehicle checks at ro ro ports at all cos; and giving traders time to learn what they have to do under the new trading regime.

FTA’s deputy chief executive, James Hookham, said: “Business cannot be expected to sort it all out at the last minute.  It is not just about the Government being ready.”

He added that the customs White Paper was also silent on the need to agree a quota with the EU over the number of trucks that will be permitted to travel between the UK and the EU after Brexit.  This is currently unlimited, but the automatic right to send a truck abroad will end upon Brexit.

“But by far the bigger issue, given the balance of trade, is with imports and the White Paper says very little about how the UK will impose Customs tariffs and border checks on freight flows from the Continent and Ireland. Disruption to imports will be felt far quicker by businesses and consumers than will a disruption to exports.

“None of these issues need be showstoppers but it is urgent that the Government commences detailed discussions with the logistics and supply chain sector immediately.  FTA and its members await their call.”

 

Tags: FTA