Yahoo News Lorry drivers could face 38 questions each time they cross Channel under no-deal Brexit - or face fines
Haulage firms are reportedly facing fines of up to £1,000 if drivers fail to fill out a 38-question form each time they cross the Channel in the event of a no-deal Brexit.
The Sun reported that the Government is considering plans to force firms to complete the questionnaire on the ‘safety and security’ of their load on top of other customs checks – or face a fine of up to £1,000 per consignment if they fail to do so.
According to the newspaper, industry sources revealed the plans amid fury at more red tape that could come with a no-deal Brexit.
One boss told The Sun: “I think it’s beyond belief the Government has no comprehension of the impact of the process they want to put in place. This is going to have yet more impact in terms of costs and jobs.”
The reports come as a leading business group warned that firms are being “hung out to dry” because of the continued uncertainty over a no-deal Brexit.
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) published a list of 20 “critical” questions it says remain unanswered for business if the UK leaves the EU on March 29 without a deal.
They include what trade agreements will be in place and how firms can move skilled staff between the UK and EU.
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Adam Marshall, director general of the BCC, said: “In less than 50 days, UK firms could face the biggest change to their terms of trade in over a generation, without the information and clarity they need to navigate their forward course.
“There is a very real risk that a lack of clear, actionable information from Government will leave firms, their people and their communities hung out to dry.”
A Government spokesman said: “The best way to support our economy, protects jobs and provide certainty for businesses and individuals as we leave is to back the deal we have agreed with the EU.
“We are focused on securing the necessary changes to ensure the deal passes through Parliament.”
According to The Sun, the Home Office has declined to comment on reports about the 38-question form for truckers, while HMRC was reported as saying it had written several times to traders to advise them how to prepare for a no-deal Brexit and would continue to provide more details over the coming weeks.
