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Queen’s Speech disappoints freight industry

[ June 22, 2017   //   ]

Following the delayed Queen’s Speech on 21 May, Robert Keen said it was no surprise that it was dominated by bills related to Brexit, nor that many of the items in the Conservative election manifesto did not make an appearance.

However, he added: “But it is very disappointing that the Conservatives’ pre-election pledge to invest £40 billion in transport infrastructure improvements, and expand UK aviation capacity, appears to have been overlooked.
“We are left to assume that the procrastination on these matters, which are central to the activities of BIFA members that manage the movement of goods within domestic and international supply chains, is likely to continue.”
As for Brexit, “the real details of the Government’s approach to Brexit, and whether it will be hard or soft – was noticeably absent,” Keen added.
“The Customs Bill appears to include legislation that is designed to help the UK develop a standalone UK Customs regime post Brexit, which could mean difficulties for any of our members’ clients that were hoping to see legislation that would limit changes to the current situation where imports and exports within the EU are tariff free.
“Now we look forward to seeing greater details on how the Trade Bill will introduce a legal framework for Britain to agree free trade deals with countries and trading blocs around the world.”
The British Ports Association’s policy manager Mark Simmonds said that any new customs arrangements should prioritise trade facilitation and look to replicate the benefits of the EU Customs Union.

He added: “Any post-Brexit customs scenario that involves additional inspections at the frontier will have a substantial impact on trade. We have real concerns about border delays, congestion and increased costs for traders if this is not done right.”

 

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