There is no substantive information on mitigating the effect of 'no deal' on the island of Ireland, where the implications would be most significant.
This is according to Ian Wright, chief executive of Food and Drink Federation in the UK, who responded yesterday to the UK government’s Technical Notices published yesterday.
He said that the government's “laudable” decision to publish the notes “confirms what a grisly prospect for UK food and drink a no-deal exit from the EU would be”.
“There is no sign of further progress on negotiating frameworks with the devolved administrations. There is no substantive information on mitigating the effect of 'no deal' on the island of Ireland, where the implications would be most significant,” he said.
“Specifically for food, today's notice about organic food certification makes clear that UK organic exporters may face a ban on their exports to the EU for at least nine months after a no-deal exit, while new approvals for certification are sought.”
No-Deal Preparations
The official papers from the UK government published yesterday advised Northern Ireland Businesses that trade across the border to contact the Irish government about preparations for a no-deal Brexit.
The papers state, "The Irish Government have indicated they would need to discuss arrangements in the event of a no deal with the European Commission and EU member states.
"We would recommend that, if you trade across the land border, you should consider whether you will need advice from the Irish government about preparations you need to make."
The UK government has repeatedly reassured people that Northern Ireland’s “unique circumstances” would be a priority for the government.
More Uncertainty
UK’s Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab has said he is confident that a deal would be reached, however, Wright said that he is less than convinced.
“The piecemeal release of these notices indicates that many are not yet ready and agreed for publication. That hardly inspires confidence,” he added.
"As the consequences of a no-deal exit from the EU become ever clearer it is vital that, to protect the interests of shoppers and consumers, the Government must deliver a deal with the EU.”
© 2018 Checkout – your source for the latest Irish retail news. Article by Aidan O’Sullivan. Click subscribe to sign up for the Checkout print edition.
