Logistics UK has raised alarms over the impending chaos at post-Brexit borders due to unclear government guidance.
- With only a month left before new border controls take effect, there remains a palpable lack of information from the UK government.
- Logistics UK highlights the significant impact this could have on food imports, especially perishable goods like meat and fish.
- The Cold Chain Federation and British Retail Consortium have both expressed their concerns over food supply and security.
- Hauliers demand urgent clarifications to prevent potential empty supermarket shelves and supply chain disruptions.
With the introduction of new border controls set for 30 April, the logistics sector finds itself in a precarious position. There is a glaring absence of crucial information from the UK government regarding the operation of these controls. Logistics UK’s members feel unprepared for a system whose workings remain largely undefined. The potential for chaotic delays is significant, especially as these controls are set to impact a wide array of goods including critical food items like meat and fish.
Since the Brexit vote seven years ago, the logistics industry has persistently urged the government for clarity on border arrangements. Yet, according to Nichola Mallon, head of trade at Logistics UK, businesses are still in the dark about essential details, including the import charges that will be applied. This cloud of uncertainty poses a tangible threat to the smooth movement of goods across the border, potentially affecting availability in stores and homes nationwide.
The Cold Chain Federation has echoed these concerns, pressing the government to mitigate possible disruptions to the supply chain. Fresh produce, in particular, cannot be left in transit for extended periods without compromising quality. The risk of significant delays further escalates when considering additional challenges such as holiday traffic and the upcoming EU entry and exit system planned for the Short Straits in October.
The British Retail Consortium underscores the stakes, noting that about 30% of the UK’s food comes from the EU, which includes nearly half of its fresh vegetables and the majority of fresh fruit. Any hold-ups at the border could severely impact these supplies, jeopardising the continuous availability of fresh produce in the UK.
Hauliers are pressing for immediate government action to establish clear guidelines and cost implications of the forthcoming border checks. The call for clarification is urgent, as hauliers seek to avoid scenarios where empty supermarket shelves become a reality due to prolonged delays in moving fresh produce.
Clarification from the government is imperative to prevent threats to the UK’s food supply chain.
