Dec 9th, 2020
3 mins
I took part on a webinar with the Federation’s equivalent in Germany – the DTI (Deutsches Tiefkühlinstitut). The focus was on the end of the Brexit Transition period. I was joined on the call by the Nagel Group and BFFF member Coppenrath & Wiese.
I must admit I was very impressed with the level of preparation that was demonstrated by the Nagel Group – their focus on the process required for moving goods and their understanding of the potential issues was both clear and comprehensive.
Similarly, Coppenrath & Wiese demonstrated a well thought through process all designed to minimise disruption and to find solutions to the increased complexity that will come into effect from 1st January.
I took the opportunity to explain the concerns the Federation has around so many open points remaining unanswered by Government with only a few days remaining before the end of the transition period.
It was good to learn whilst I was on the webinar that the Government has now agreed a deal with the EU to ensure food supplies into Northern Ireland will be maintained, however, we have no details on this and hopefully this will become clear as further details are provided in the next few days.
I was also questioned on the UK approach to food standards. I explained that the current EU legislation will be rolled over into UK legislation. Also that the UK food industry have historically driven high standards in food and that I see no change to this approach.
