NI Protocol news ‘a much-needed relief’ but new figures reinforce need for deal
The IoD has welcomed agreement on implementing the Northern Ireland Protocol as set out in the Commons by Michael Gove today, but warned that a wider trade deal remains crucial to minimise disruption.
Less than half of company directors who move goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland polled in a new IoD survey felt prepared for the Protocol becoming operational on 1st January.
Responding to the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster’s statement, Allie Renison, Senior Policy Advisor at the IoD, said:
“Today’s statement comes as a much-needed relief, as it offers some further clarity on implementing the Withdrawal Agreement. These are details business leaders have been anxiously waiting for, for some time.
“However, while the full text is yet to be published, it’s already clear that a trade deal is needed to minimise the Protocol’s most disruptive effects. Piecemeal exemptions and staggering the impact of certain new rules for trade across the Irish Sea is welcome but avoiding permanent damage and disruption ultimately still depends on wider provisions between the UK and EU. The more both sides can agree on tariffs and regulatory standards, the less overall impact there will be on both external and internal UK trade.
“The fact that less than 1 in 2 directors affected by the Protocol feel ready for it speaks to the impossible situation businesses find themselves in. Preparing amidst a pandemic, multiple lockdowns and in advance of knowing the detail is an incredibly tall order.”
Full survey results
166 respondents, conducted between 26 November – 7 December 2020
Does your organisation feel prepared for the Irish protocol becoming operational from January 1st?
Previous survey results on businesses’ Brexit readiness
960 respondents, conducted between 26 November – 7 December 2020
Which of the following statements best reflects your organisation’s preparedness for the end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December 2020?
[Of all those impacted by Brexit] Do you feel your organisation’s ability to be ready for Brexit changes are impacted by the current negotiations?
[Of those who were not fully prepared for the end of transition] Do you feel your organisation’s ability to be ready for Brexit changes are impacted by the current negotiations?
