EU and UK trade deal not fit for purpose

THE government promised to “get Brexit done”. But for businesses, artists and many others, it is only just getting started.

The trading relationship between the EU and UK is not fit for purpose.

Traders are being subjected to burdensome processes including customs declarations, rules of origin certificates and VAT processes.

Many businesses have ceased or restricted trade as a result, stifling the country’s recovery from COVID and narrowing choice for consumers.

Big name brands have stopped shipping to the UK. Music and arts, one of the country’s proudest activities, face devastation as artists face insurmountable difficulties to practise in the EU.

The government claims these are just “teething problems”, but any resolution will be too late for traders and artists that have been ruined and employees who have lost their jobs.

And many of the problems will be permanent.

The country deserves better than this.

If we are to “build back better”, British businesses and artists need support, not more red tape.

Therefore I am supporting the Best for Britain campaign to simplify trade.

R Donaldson By email