BMPA response to Jeremy Corbyn’s Brexit speech

BMPA has for some time been advocating for a continuation of a free and frictionless trade arrangement with the EU post Brexit.

In his speech at Coventry University, Jeremy Corbyn has rightly highlighted the importance of this highly integrated supply chain to the thousands of companies that rely on the free flow of goods between the UK and EU countries.

Any delays at borders and ports would risk the ‘just-in-time’ model of production adopted by many of the UK’s food manufacturers and potentially increase costs and reduce choice for consumers. Remaining part of a customs union would avoid damaging companies that rely on moving ingredients and finished products across EU borders several times during their manufacturing process.

Nick Allen, BMPA Chief Executive commented: “we currently benefit from working collaboratively with EU partners such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). We are able to pool our collective expertise to drive robust, evidence-based policy on food safety to maintain the high standards that British consumers have come to expect. “

“A post-Brexit customs union with the EU would ensure that this close co-operation can continue and avoid the disruption that would result from a hard Irish border and a loss of free-flowing trade for businesses”

From the meat industry perspective, even a customs union still does not provide a solution to the veterinary checks and therefore potential delays and costs that will still be incurred.