British ports “not ready for Brexit customs checks”
Key Border Control Posts still uncompleted as UK ports scramble to catch up with post-Brexit customs requirements.
Several key British ports have complained that they are not ready to meet the challenge of post-Brexit red tape, reports the Guardian and many have asked the government to postpone the next wave of Brexit bureaucracy so that they can complete crucial customs facilities. With the July deadline looming many construction sites for new Border Control Posts (BCP) are still “muddy fields”.
Lord Frost, the Brexit minister, is reportedly considering reviewing plans for full customs checks on all imported goods and pressure is mounting on ministers to delay their deadlines and lay out measures for reducing the amount of red tape involving in exporting goods.
UK exports to the EU have been subject to controls since 1st January, but Westminster decided to delay new import regulations until the summer to give businesses and customs officials time to prepare.
However, from 30th July ministers says checks are to take place at more than 30 designated BCPs where all goods entering from the EU via air, sea or land routes can be inspected.
“It’s obvious not all of the facilities are going to be ready; how much of it will be is still up for debate,” said Richard Ballantyne, chief executive of the trade body British Ports Association (BPA). “Our frustration with government is they are not willing to share what the plan B is.”
