Logistics UK joins with European counterparts to raise concerns over new UK import controls

In the letter to the Secretary of State, Logistics UK’s Chief Executive David Wells OBE raised the industry’s concerns about the current implementation of phase two of the  BTOM.  In particular, Mr Wells raised concerns over the increased costs and lack of certainty and added complexity which are making it difficult for businesses to trade effectively and, as he pointed out, some EU suppliers are now opting out of serving the UK market, and some UK logistics operators are less willing to continue to serve the Short Straits route. As Mr Wells outlined, this will ultimately impact GB consumers in the form of lower product availability and higher prices which are outcomes no one wishes to see.

Mr Wells continued: “As an industry we want to see UK-EU trade thrive. As carriers, we want to protect the UK’s biosecurity and food safety. That is why we have come together to highlight our key shared concerns about the current operation of the BTOM when it comes to the physical inspection process, supply of information and notification to drivers, loading and unloading at BCPs, invoicing, drivers' waiting times and facilities, opening hours and border checkpoints, and damage and liability. We believe all of these issues require urgent review. We are committed to working constructively with the government and we hope this meeting with the Secretary of State will take place soon so we can discuss these challenges and importantly, our recommendations to help overcome them."

Published On: 19/09/2024 15:01:00

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