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Brexit supporters and opponents at a demo in London in 2019: disappointing conclusion
PHOTO: HENRY NICHOLLS/ REUTERS
The freedom to negotiate trade deals on one's own initiative was one of the key arguments behind Britain's exit from the EU.
The conclusion so far is anything but promising.
It is "clear" that Brexit "has had an impact" on the decline in trade, according to the report by the parliamentary committee responsible for overseeing public spending, released on Wednesday.
The "only identifiable effects" of Brexit on British companies are "higher costs, more bureaucracy and delays at the borders".
Committee chair Meg Hillier of the opposition Labor Party said: "One of the great promises of Brexit was to free up British companies to give them more room to maximize their productivity and their contribution to the economy".
This removal of trade barriers is "all the more urgent now on the long road to recovery from the pandemic".
So far, however, Brexit has only led to more burdens.
The report warned that difficulties at borders would only increase as trade returns to normal and more controls come into effect as planned.
"It's time the government spoke honestly about the problems instead of making exaggerated promises," Hillier said.
The promise by the government of Brexit champion Boris Johnson to create “the most efficient border in the world” by 2025 is “optimistic”, according to the report.
The authors are "not convinced" that the promises are "backed up by a detailed plan".
Johnson is also coming under increasing pressure from his own group.
Many MPs had called for Johnson to emphasize the supposedly positive consequences of Britain's exit from the EU.
»Better and happier fish«
In response, the PM created a new cabinet post for "Brexit Opportunities."
Johnson on Tuesday appointed MP Jacob Rees-Mogg as “Secretary of State for Brexit Opportunities and Government Efficiency”.
Foreign Minister Liz Truss continues to lead negotiations with the EU.
Rees-Mogg, 52, is known for being an eccentric but is also considered an influential member of the very conservative wing of the Tory party.
He caused a stir, for example, when he responded to the concerns of outraged fishermen about the provisions in the Brexit treaty: “What matters is that we have our fish back.
They are British fish now.
And with it better and happier fish.«
mmq/AFP
