To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of claims by channel ports and cross-channel transport operators that it is too late for preparations that would avoid disruptions at ports if no deal is reached before the UK leaves the EU.
Answered on
19 June 2018
The government is engaging directly and regularly with ports and cross-channel operators, to understand the operational implications of different EU exit proposals and to enable them to prepare in time and avoid disruption to flow of trade through those ports.
The planning work with ports is taking a pragmatic approach to arrangements to ensure trade can flow and to address any risks which are raised.
Plans are underway to arrange for changes to infrastructure at ports which may be required in the different exit scenarios, including any new infrastructure which may be necessary, so that there is a functioning border which supports flow of trade in any of the scenarios.