SCC Comment on UK Government’s publication of technical notices
Commenting on today’s publication of the UK Government’s second round of technical notices, Liz Cameron, Director & Chief Executive, Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said:
“In the event of a no-deal scenario, businesses must have clear and comprehensive direction from government, as well as a clear understanding of how the government intends to minimise economic disruption in the event of a no-deal scenario.
“Businesses will have additional clarity from today’s publication of the second round of technical notices, but we are far from the finish line, with many questions unanswered. With the UK’s exit from the EU imminent, we cannot afford any more delays which impact on the ability of business to plan, prepare and trade.”
On Products Standards Regulation:
“Businesses trading in the UK and the EU will be concerned with plans to operate under two sets of conformity assessment regimes, should a no-deal scenario become a reality. Additional administrative burdens are unwelcome, especially at a time when business is focused on securing new contracts, new market opportunities and creating new jobs.”
On Mobile Roaming:
“The benefits to business people and consumers of using mobile data throughout the European Union without facing roaming charges is one which must be maintained. It is likely that in the event of a no-deal scenario, UK mobile operators would not be bound by EU regulations on roaming charges, and consumers could be faced with additional charges. We understand that some mobile operators including EE, O2 and Vodafone have suggested there are no plans to introduce additional charges to mobile roaming and we urge all mobile operators to provide a guarantee on this and continue to provide value to consumers.”
On Driving Licenses:
“In the event of a no-deal scenario, a UK driving license would no longer be valid by itself in any EU country and would no longer be valid for exchange. Whilst this will cause a level of frustration and additional administrative burden for business people and the public, the Government has outlined an alternative approach in today’s announcement. The International Driving Permit scheme outlines the clear steps that would need to be taken in order to be allowed to drive in the EU.”
