British businesses still need detailed information to ensure they can continue trading after Brexit, the Freight Transport Association (FTA) has warned.
Commenting after Brexit secretary Dominic Raab delivered what he described as “practical and proportionate” advice for what will happen in the case of no-deal when Britain leaves the European Union on 29 March 2019, the FTA says that the paper provides some “welcome advice”, more information is needed.
The association says logistics businesses need workable solutions, more than just damage control to keep Britain trading.
FTA European policy manager, Sarah Laouadi says “no deal would be disastrous for logistics” and that while preparing for eventualities including no deal is a “sound strategy”, it should not be the “end game which negotiators accept”.
She says: “There are clear problems which could face our supply chain if agreements cannot be reached including customs and border arrangements, the continuity of trade agreements and vehicle permits, as well as the continuation of business access to EU workers.”
Laoudi describes the supply chain as the “blood in the veins of the UK’s economy”, keeping schools, hospitals and businesses stocked, shop shelves full and retailers provided with the goods they need.
She says: “Without quick progress on the key elements that FTA has outlined, the resulting disruption could have disastrous impacts for British and EU business. A no-deal agreement should only be considered once every opportunity to reach a deal has been explored. Negotiators on both sides need to keep working to ensure that Britain and the EU keep on trading, day in, day out.”
The government has released 25 documents covering industries, with businesses trading with the EU being advised to start planning for new customs checks, and they may need to pay for new software or logistical help.
