The European Commission has warned that Boris Johnson’s proposed trade agreement would end frictionless trade, in a document discussed by EU diplomats on Monday.
The internal presentation is part of the commission’s early discussions as it prepares to start negotiations with the UK next month. It reiterated that any departure from the single market would create a customs border, with market restrictions for British products.
It will be a stinging reminder of the troubles ahead for food producers. This week the NFU reiterated the importance of maintaining frictionless access to EU markets.
“If Brexit is about putting the British brand around the world, then the UK dairy sector can deliver that,” said NFU VP Stuart Roberts at a dairy conference on Tuesday.
With Defra in constant flux, can Johnson be trusted to protect food & drink?
“But it needs the right investment and trading environment. Top of the list must be ensuring a free and frictionless trade deal with the EU.”
The EU delivered a further blow by ruling out “mutual recognition” of regulations between the UK and EU. The idea was previously suggested as a way the UK could maintain the benefits of the single market despite having left it.
Last week, Johnson set out his red lines for a post-Brexit deal to EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen. They included the UK regaining control of its fishing waters, though this now looks to be a pre-condition of any trade deal.
In its presentation, the commission said: “Any trade deal must be underpinned by level playing field and with a fisheries agreement.
“Existing reciprocal access to fishing waters and resources should be maintained.”
No comments yet