Nov 10th, 2021
4 mins
On 9th November we attended the Defra led Business Readiness Forum (BRF) where Defra gave a brief update on the work they’ve been doing on how to deliver full import requirements from July 2022 in a ‘safe and responsible manner’.
Whilst no granular detail was given, we were told that Defra are looking at the feasibility of a ‘phasing in’ approach over a short period of time for certificates and physical checks, by commodity groups. This smaller starting base should help traders and the likes of Port Health, and allow time and space to address any issues. Further detail on this is due to be announced next week so we will keep you updated.
Defra have also updated their part in the Border Operating Model (BOM) and this is expected to be formally published w/c 22nd November, once HMRC have completed their updates, which includes work they have been doing on the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS).
What was clear from the meeting was that although the BOM will lay the requirements out quite clearly, there will be a certain level of pragmatism applied and although businesses should strive to ensure they get things right, a risk-based approach will be applied, for example on ensuring pre-notification of consignments.
Unfortunately, at the time of writing, we are unable to provide you with any concrete updates on the progress of the ongoing negotiations with the EU regarding possible easements for trade between NI and GB. Discussions were described as ‘cordial’ by Defra, yet we note that the Institute of Export and International Trade report that the atmosphere ‘isn’t great’. They report that Lord Frost has said Article 16 is ‘still on the table’ and the EU is said to be considering how it will respond if the UK triggers it. If you want to refresh your memory about Article 16 and what triggering it would mean for GB trade with NI and the EU then you can read their latest article here.
