Calls for ‘orientation phase’ to iron out Brexit technicalities
An orientation phase to ‘iron out’ Brexit technicalities has been called for by the British Meat Processors Association (BMPA).
The phase, as part of final negotiations with the EU, would allow changes to be staggered throughout 2021 in a bid to avoid a ‘damaging shock’ to imports and exports on January 1.
Peers on the EU Environment Sub-Committee have also written to Defra Secretary George Eustice to request a minimum two-month ’grace period’ for goods travelling between GB and NI and mainland Europe, while the Scottish Association of Meat Wholesalers has called for a six-month break.
Recent weeks have seen the meat sector express mounting anxiety about additional red tape and costs for exporters from December 31, with fears UK businesses will lose EU orders.
An extension to current trading terms during the phase would help ‘preserve existing trade with Europe’.
by Hannah Binns
Read full article Share on twitter