Commenting on ’s speech on the ’s position on Brexit and future
UK-EU customs arrangements, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of
the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“’s position on the customs
union, like the Government’s, feels more political than practical
for business. The priority must be to delve far more into the
detail and negotiate a pragmatic deal on both customs and
regulatory recognition that allows businesses to get their goods
across borders as quickly as possible.
“Businesses are interested in clarity and certainty, not
Westminster political dividing lines. Westminster is still having
an inward-facing conversation, when what businesses need is a
clear understanding of how the UK’s political establishment will
deliver results in a tough negotiation with Brussels.
“Trading businesses want to see a practical and pragmatic customs
relationship between the UK and the European Union in future that
reduces costs and delays at borders as much as possible. Most,
however, stop short of recommending a particular model because
all have both benefits and drawbacks, which must be more fully
explored.”
On transition, Marshall said:
“Our business communities agree with Mr Corbyn that a
comprehensive transition period is needed to prevent two sets of
costly adjustments to new trading conditions. Given that the
Government has made similar points, all parties at Westminster
should be working toward a swift agreement on transition, so
firms can plan ahead and adapt with confidence.”
On European agencies, he added:
“Labour are right to maintain a pragmatic position on the UK’s
future cooperation with specific EU and Europe-wide agencies and
programmes. Many UK businesses believe that engagement and
collaboration with some EU agencies will be vital to their
competitiveness in future.”
On the status of EU nationals in the UK, Marshall
added:
“Businesses across the UK have been categorical in demanding
assurances on the future status of their European employees,
co-workers and friends. Regardless of the outcome of
negotiations, the rights of EU nationals working in UK businesses
must be assured – for the good of families, communities and our
economy.”
