Neither Britain nor the European Union (EU) is ready for a no deal Brexit by October 31, a British business group said in its latest report.
In a report released on Sunday night, the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) urged Britain and the EU to capitalise on the new political dynamic.
The new political dynamic was presented by the appointment of a new British prime minister, Boris Johnson to work toward a Brexit deal as well as step up no deal preparations.
The report “What comes next? The business analysis of no deal” came after Johnson took office.
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Vowing to deliver Brexit by October 31 with “no ifs, no buts.” Johnson’s predecessor Theresa May resigned after failing to win approval for her Brexit deal from the British parliament.
“There is a fresh opportunity to show a new spirit of pragmatism and flexibility.
Both sides are under-prepared, so it’s in all our interests. It cannot be beyond the wit of the continent’s greatest negotiators to find a way through and agree to a deal.
“But until this becomes a reality, all must prepare to leave without one,’’ said Josh Hardie, deputy director general of the CBI.
The CBI has backed government efforts to help prepare for an increasingly possible no deal Brexit by publishing practical steps Britain, the EU and businesses can take to reduce the worst effects, the report said.
Having analysed Brexit preparations by Britain, the EU and businesses in 27 key areas of Britain’s relationship with the EU that are most important to businesses.
The report concluded that despite existing mitigations, disruption is likely in all those areas immediately after a no deal Brexit.
The report found that larger companies, particularly those in highly regulated areas such as financial services, have well thought out contingency plans in place, while smaller ones are less well prepared. (NAN)
