Commenting on the triggering of Article 50 by the Prime Minister, Theresa May, Caroline Williams, Chief Executive of Norfolk Chamber said:
“Now that Brexit negotiations are set to begin, businesses across Norfolk and the UK and their trading partners in Europe want answers to practical questions. A down to earth and sensible dialogue on the real-world issues, rather than verbal volleys between London and Brussels, would give Norfolk firms greater confidence over the next two years.
Mrs Williams outlined five key asks that Norfolk Chamber, in consultation with its members, would like to see as part of the Brexit negotiations:
1. Business Voice: The Government appear to be making incorrect assumptions in some areas – there is a need to ensure that businesses have a clear input into negotiations, to explain the potential impact of Government decisions.
2. Labour: Existing EU workers should have the right to stay in the UK. Going forward, there should be a bureaucratic-free system for seasonal workers and key staff. A simplified system which will help key Norfolk sectors such as tourism, food producers and agriculture continue to grow.
3. International Trade: Tariffs need to be kept to a minimum, with simplified customs procedures to make exporting as easy as possible. To grow our export capacity, swift trade agreements with countries should be reached and trade missions should be expanded.
4. Standards: Product standards should be aligned and recognised by the EU, to ensure that Norfolk products remain competitive.
5. Funding: UK funding levels for business and people development need to be maintained in Norfolk to the levels that were formally funded from the EU.
“Norfolk’s business voice needs to be loud and clear over the coming months. If any business has particular concerns or worries, do pass them on to us. The British Chambers of Commerce, our Westminster office, is meeting with Ministers and senior civil servants daily and need to know how you feel.”
