Tariff talk: how a “no-deal” Brexit might affect UK farmers
Whilst some are very much in favour of a hard Brexit or a “no-deal” Brexit, arguing that this will give the UK greater autonomy over its own laws and economy, there is concern that the Government’s latest tariff plans for a “no-deal” scenario could leave many British farmers in a precarious situation.
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While there are some benefits for sheep producers, other sectors would see reduced tariffs and some, such as eggs, cereals and vegetables, would have no protection at all.
As much as politicians appear to be working hard to avoid a ‘no deal’ Brexit, it’s still a very real possibility at this stage. Should it become a reality, we hope that the Government will consult with the agricultural industry as a whole, and with the different sectors within it, to gather opinion and feedback on tariff arrangements.
The NFU and other farming bodies have already voiced concern over the tariffs and the tight schedule the industry has been given to adjust. This should be a warning call to the Government that it needs to re-evaluate its current plans.
More broadly, there seems to be some discord and lack of agreement about the importance of UK agriculture from within the Government.
We have had one Government adviser reported as saying food security is “nonsense”, and the Chairman of the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee (EFRA), Neil Parish, commenting that farmers must make a nuisance of themselves to be heard.
We certainly do still have a role to play as an industry, in continuing to push for the best possible arrangements for agriculture after Brexit. We can only stress that the Government needs to take a more considered view on the impact of tariff decisions on the trade of UK farmers.
We aren’t just talking about coming to a conclusive Brexit deal anymore; we’re talking about the very future of farming in this country.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on Brexit and agricultural tariffs. Please get in touch with our Rural Team.