The proposed framework to implement the NI protocol within the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement needs to be “urgently revised” as it could give NI meat companies an unfair commercial advantage, the Scottish Association of Meat Wholesalers (SAMW) has claimed.

In a letter written to Scottish Secretary Alister Jack, SAMW President Andy McGowan said that it is necessary to remove “existing anomalies and grey areas” in the framework proposed by Defra.

The NI protocol means that NI would follow EU rules for goods, allowing companies unfettered access to EU markets. But the downside is possible export summary declarations on goods moving from NI to Britain, and tariffs on goods moving in the opposite direction which are deemed to be “at risk” of going into the EU.

The whole issue is back at the top of the news agenda this week, with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s proposals on an Internal Market Bill that would give the UK power to override some aspects of the NI protocol in the event of there being no trade deal with the EU.

Crucial

Given that EU trade was worth an estimated £85m to Scottish red meat processors in 2019, McGowan is keen to see a deal.

“It is crucial that all current red meat export activity to the EU market is maintained,” he said.

In his letter, he also raised concerns about a lack of clarity around procedures for moving meat between companies in Scotland and NI, on what health marks should be applied, and whether there is the veterinary capacity in place to certify products.

Read more

UK’s Brexit move has ‘backfired fairly spectacularly’ – Coveney

UFU chief warns of ‘devastating’ Brexit outcome