MPs launch inquiry into Brexit border delays

An urgent inquiry has been launched by MPs into delays to meat exports following the end of the Brexit transition period.

The inquiry by the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee will examine how the government can support meat and seafood exporters.

See also: ‘Serious loss’ in meat export trade

The committee said businesses of all sizes had reported losing money and trade due to red tape and bureaucratic border processes.

It has written to Defra secretary George Eustice asking for the department to set out the arrangements which will help businesses access much-needed financial support quickly.

Cost to business

The committee also ask for estimates of the cost to date to UK food businesses caused by border issues and delays.

Committee chairman Neil Parish said: “A month of delays, disruption and red tape have meant food export businesses, large and small, have lost many tens of thousands of pounds.

“This needs to be gripped by the government at the highest level before businesses go to the wall.”

Mr Parish said news of the compensation fund for seafood exporters was welcome – but details of how it would work were urgently required.

Action plan needed

“It’s time for the government to get its act together and set out short-, medium- and long-term action plans for how it will support British food exporters.

“It is also clear that systems need to be streamlined, businesses supported, and mitigation plans made ahead of upcoming checks on food imports.”

Mr Parish said the broader inquiry would now begin accepting written evidence – exploring both long- and short-term action plans for exports to the EU.

The committee is also asking questions of the UK’s preparation for checking food imports from the EU later this year, and what lessons have been learnt.

It is seeking answers to a number of questions, including the impact of delays and non-tariff barriers on individual businesses.

The initial deadline for responses is Friday 19 February.