Call for Brexit certainty for Scottish hauliers
Written by: Fuel Card Services, Last updated:11th August 2020
There are growing calls for increased clarity on what a ‘no deal’ Brexit would mean for Scottish hauliers.
Scotland’s cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity Michael Matheson stated there needs to be more detail on how this possible outcome could impact the sector in the months ahead.
Calls for clarity not being heeded
Mr Matheson said: “The UK government has to provide urgent advice on how, and when, it will address the very real concerns of our hauliers, their customers and their employees, to allow the industry to plan adequately and ensure its long-term future.”
He argued there should be plans in place for every possible scenario and ‘no deal’ is something that is yet to be fully explored by officials in Westminster.
However, with the deadline for Brexit fast approaching – even with the possibility of a deferred exit date – Scottish haulage providers need to know how to sufficiently prepare for life outside of the EU.
Mr Matheson noted that with no bilateral agreements signed between the UK and EU, and no further information being provided, it is now imperative that action is taken to maintain the smooth operation of many businesses.
At present, there are few businesses that hold the requisite permits to continue operating as normal after Brexit if no deal is struck.
“Scotland’s hauliers and their customers are extremely concerned,” he concluded.
Ellie Baker, brand manager at FCS Scotland, adds: “Brexit has the potential to cause significant disruption to Scottish hauliers travelling between the UK and Europe. It therefore requires urgent clarity to allow the industry to effectively plan for the future.”
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