We need to quit Customs Union now

THERE has been much political manoeuvring over the last few weeks in relation to terms and conditions concerning the United Kingdom quitting the European Union.

This has ranged from demands for a second referendum, by the likes of ex-Labour leader Tony Blair and ex-Liberal Democrat leader Paddy Ashdown, to calls for a clearer picture to be laid before Parliament of the Government’s negotiating position by the current Lib Dem leader, Tim Farron – a totally daft idea.

Setting aside all the shadow boxing in relation to Brexit, Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson was absolutely right when he said that it might be necessary for us to quit the Customs Union on invoking Article 50.

I just cannot see any way in which the UK can possibly remain a member of said union, for its terms and conditions clearly state that no country can negotiate separate deals with external nations outside.

Now, that is precisely what, we as a nation, have voted to do by opting to quit the EU.

Already, the team of US President-elect Donald Trump have said they are quite keen to do a deal with Britain.

Leaving the Customs Union will free up our government to agree deals with countries throughout the world at advantageous tariff rates to suit all parties.

This is just one of the reasons I have always supported Brexit, thus cutting costs and opening up new markets for UK goods.

These are currently held in high esteem worldwide for quality and durability, even though our factory gate prices may seem expensive in relation to some Middle and Far East producers.

Listening to a selection of speeches and comments from leaders of other European countries, I just wonder whether some of them are beginning to realise that giving David Cameron short shift when he attempted to re-negotiate better terms for the UK, may turn out to have been the wrong strategy.

Meanwhile, we should make it clear that, as far as the Customs Union is concerned, we quit.

Russell Luckock is chairman of Birmingham pressings firm

AE Harris