Brexit Checker
To get a personalised list of actions for you, your business and your family use the Brexit checker.
Taking back control
At 11pm on 31 December 2020, the UK took back control of its future following the departure from the EU.
Following the separation Prime Minister Boris Johnson stated: "We will take back control of our trade policy and leave the EU customs union and single market. We will take back control of our waters, with this treaty affirming British sovereignty over our vast marine wealth. We will take back control of our money by ending vast payments to the EU. We will take back control of our borders and will introduce our new points-based immigration system at the start of 2021. Most importantly, the agreement provides for the UK to take back control of our laws, affording no role for EU law and no jurisdiction for the European Court of Justice. The only laws we will have to obey are the ones made by the Parliament we elect."
Government has now released a summary explainer highlighting key points of the deal including
- Trade and cooperation agreement overview
- Trade in goods
- Transport of goods by road
- Aviation
- Visas for short-term visits
- Fisheries
- Law enforcement and judicial cooperation in criminal matters
- Health security
- Cyber security
Find out more on the Government website here.
Resources to help you
How to 'Brexit-Proof' your workforce
Law firm, Williamson’s seek to provide headlines that you and your business can use to process these significant changes to the law and how it might effect your business.
Click on the image to read the article.
Do you trade with Northern Ireland?
If so, the free-to-use Trader Support Service (TSS) is now live and ready to support businesses with the changes to Northern Ireland trade, which takes effect on 1 January 2021.
Digital import declarations as well as safety and security declarations will be needed for goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland to ensure that:
- tariffs are not paid on trade within the UK
- Northern Ireland can benefit from UK Free Trade Agreements
- goods destined for Ireland (i.e. the EU) pay tariffs when they should
You’ll be able to use the Trader Support Service to make these declarations.
Go to the Trade Support Service
You can also access the Movement Assistance Scheme (MAS): which provides free support, including a dedicated helpline. This support is available for traders and businesses moving products such as animals, plants and associated products from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. MAS also means that traders will not need to pay health certification costs, which will be met by the UK Government.
You can find the most recent guidance on moving goods into, out of or through Northern Ireland here.
Here to Help
2020 has been a tough year. The next few months have additional challenges for all businesses as we continue to grapple with the effects of Covid-19 and with the end of the Brexit transition period. We are here to help.
If you would like to have some one-to-one tailored advice and guidance, please do get in touch.
Business Support Helpline
A helpline has been set up for businesses doing business with the EU. The Business Support Helpline can help you to identify the actions you need to take.
Please see dedicated numbers below:-
Businesses in England - 0800 998 1098
Businesses in Scotland - 0300 303 0660
Businesses in Wales - 0300 060 3000
Businesses in Northern Ireland - 0800 181 4422
For more information, including opening hours, please click here.
