The UK government and the European Union must not reach a no-deal Brexit, as this would congest food supplies, making the foods rotting at ports, and throwing retailers out of business, the British Retail Consortium warned.
The warning came before British Prime Minister Theresa May hosts ministers to reach agreement on how to advance with the Brexit talks.
As Reuters reported, BRC chairman Richard Pennycook also sent a letter to Theresa May as well as the EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier, BRC, calling them to reach a deal that ensures the free flow of goods after Brexit on March 29, 2019, in order not to damage both UK consumers and EU based producers.
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Currently, half of Britain’s food is imported, and of that more than half, namely 60% is originated from the EU.
Mr. Pennycook also added that if the two parties don’t reach a deal, new border controls will be established, creating delays. Such a development would harm UK consumers, as it is likely that food will rot at ports, damaging the quality of what is available to consumers.
In addition, as the UK Cabinet prepares for an away day at Chequers this week, the British Ports Association (BPA) has urged Ministers to agree a proposal that will ensure goods continue to flow uninterrupted between UK and EU ports post-Brexit. The UK’s post-Brexit customs relationship with the EU will dictate how almost half of UK trade is handled at the border.