UK can be valued trading partner of EU
Now that Parliament is back to work, one of the important jobs to conclude is our new relationship with our former partners in the EU. I am proud that Sussex features heavily in the history of Britain – just as Britain’s history features heavily in that of continental Europe. Historically, the ports and beaches of Sussex were the embarkation point – and occasionally even the receiving point – for less good-natured attempts to harness our economies together than these negotiations.
Many towns and villages of modern Sussex can date their roots directly back to William of Normandy following his memorable visit to Hastings in 1066.
I share the Government’s ambition to achieve the best outcome achievable for the UK and to continue to have good relations with the EU but now as a valued third party trading partner.
Having conducted many negotiations in the course of my 27-year business career I know a deadline is vitally important to get both parties to close any gaps between their respective positions.
Some would countenance delay but, in fact, this government has shown they are able to negotiate international agreements with speed and efficiency.
The Withdrawal Agreement was reopened and negotiated in under three months last summer despite the almost universal assertion that this would be not be possible.
Why wouldn’t the EU agree a deal with its largest trading partner at least as good as that which it has with Japan?
I agree with the president of the European Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker, when he said of that EU-Japanese deal that it would ‘create opportunities for our companies, our workers and our citizens and that will boost our economies’.
If that is true of Japan 6,000 miles away, how much more true it must be across a mere 60 miles.
Much closer to home, I was delighted last week to learn that the Henfield Haven – a day centre providing services to vulnerable and isolated people in the community – has been granted the honour of a Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS).
Ordinarily the Haven is open on weekdays to assist those with needs such as dementia.
While it has recently been closed through the lockdown, its army of volunteers have continued their good work by supporting people with Covid-19 by dropping off food deliveries.
The QAVS award has been described as the MBE for the voluntary sector and is a well-deserved recognition of their efforts.
The inspiring dedication of groups like the Henfield Haven volunteers are an important reminder that one strength of the West Sussex is our tight-knit local communities.