COVID-19: FTA calls for extension of Brexit transition period

The UK logistics industry is calling on the Westminster government to seek an extension of the transition period for leaving the European Union (EU), citing the challenges posed by the COVID-19 virus in implementing new legislation.

FTA, the business group representing the logistics sector, wants the transition period extended beyond the current date at the end of December 2020 and it also urges the UK government to suspend other planned domestic legislation that will impact the logistics sector.

Elizabeth de Jong, policy director at FTA, said: “This is not about the relative merits of Brexit, or any trading arrangements that our industry will need to adopt. This is purely and simply so the businesses tasked with keeping the UK’s supply chain intact can concentrate on the serious issues, which the COVID-19 pandemic is placing on the industry.

“Logistics is facing unprecedented challenges, both in terms of keeping the UK economy supplied with all the goods it needs to function, as well as coping with the increased disruption to staffing levels caused by sickness and self-isolation and concerns about the viability of their businesses.

“Our first priority is always to deliver for our customers, and there is simply not enough capacity available to plan the major structural changes needed to implement a successful departure from the EU, as well as the myriad of other planned legislation changes on the horizon, as well as dealing with unprecedented pressures caused by COVID-19.”

Added de Jong: “All this new legislation, and new trading arrangements, need careful planning and implementation in normal circumstances.  But it is clear they would bring major change to our sector at a time when we are fully committed to overcoming the challenges which COVID-19 presents. 

“In addition to the administrative, practical and financial difficulties experienced by our sector, the pandemic will undoubtedly have a significant impact on supplies of new equipment, technology and vehicles in the coming months, as well as the industry’s ability to recruit and train new staff.  Add in the challenge of adapting to new trading arrangements with the EU – which are yet to be formalised – and the situation is placing logistics under huge and unnecessary pressures. 

“Logistics is a flexible industry, but such significant change cannot happen overnight, and there is simply not the capacity for planning and delivery of new legislation at present within the system. COVID-19 has created a once-in-a-lifetime emergency situation which needs the full attention of the whole sector – adding in a host of new legislation would place untold, unnecessary pressure on a supply chain that is already stretched.  Our industry needs the support of government, not to be broken by it.”