Chamber reacts to Brexit white paper
The chief executive of the Black Country Chamber of Commerce says the area's businesses will welcome the publication of the Government's long-awaited white paper on the future relationship between the UK and the European Union.
Corin Crane said Black Country businesses have had to endure a lack of clarity from Westminster for too long.
"However, whilst the UK will leave the single market and the customs union, it is essential that the creation of a Facilitated Customs Arrangement will ensure that importers and exporters are able to operate without the need for customs checks and controls at the borders.
“As the Europe Direct Information Centre for the Black Country, we aim to provide access to support for both businesses and citizens alike, helping to answer questions relating to the most pressing Brexit-related issues.
"Over the coming months, we will be taking our mobile walk-in centre across the region, where people will be able to drop-in for support on a range of matters, including the rights of EU nationals both during and after Brexit negotiations.”
The white paper outlines key areas of focus including the economy, national sovereignty, movement of people, and the Irish border situation.
From a trade perspective, the white paper calls for a free trade area for goods, giving frictionless border access. In essence, this would “protect uniquely integrated supply chains and ‘just in time’ processes” with no “costly customs declarations”.
For more information on how EDIC Black Country can help businesses, contact 01902 912336 or e-mail europedirect@blackcountrychamber.co.uk
