Comment from Logistics UK at the introduction of the first stage of the Border Target Operating Model
Wednesday 31 January 2024
Speaking as the first stage of the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) is introduced, which will see checks put in place at the UK’s border with the EU, Nichola Mallon from Logistics UK is concerned that there is still much to be confirmed:
“Since the Brexit vote in 2016, there has been much talking, but it’s disappointing that we are still asking for clarification on key asks around the way that goods move across the UK’s borders with Europe. The government has caused new confusion this week about how fruit and vegetable imports are to be handled, meaning there will now be additional import checks at the UK’s borders which will add delays and potentially costs to fresh produce in our shops. All this confusion is preventing businesses from preparing effectively for the new trading arrangements with the EU – our members need confirmation now about how things are going to work, not at the last minute. There are still outstanding issues to be sorted, including the import charge the government will apply at its border control posts, and how the process is to work, all of which adds complexity, time and cost to the movement of goods."
Logistics UK is one of the UK’s leading business groups, representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping the UK trading, and more than seven million people directly employed in the making, selling and moving of goods. With decarbonisation, Brexit, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc. Logistics UK supports, shapes and stands up for safe and efficient logistics, and is the only business group which represents the whole industry, with members from the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers whose businesses depend on the efficient movement of goods.
