‘Hauliers estimate trade with Europe has fallen massively since the beginning of the year’

• THE government may claim that Brexit is “done”, but for many small business owners it is just getting started.

The trading relationship between the European Union and United Kingdom is not fit for purpose. Traders are being subjected to burdensome processes – customs declaration, rules of origin certificates, VAT processes.

Many businesses have ceased or restricted trade as a result, stifling our recovery from the Covid-19 and narrowing choice for consumers. Big-name brands have stopped shipping to the UK.

While the government claims that these “teething problems” are being ironed out, hauliers estimate trade with Europe has fallen massively since the beginning of the year.

And for fisherman who face a ban on exporting their shellfish to Europe, these “teething problems” are permanent and insurmountable.

If we are to build back Britain better than ever, we British businesses need a boost – not more red tape. That is why I am supporting the Best for Britain campaign to simplify trade.

BETHEN THORPE, N6