WSTA warns against ‘catastrophic’ no deal Brexit

The WSTA has warned again that a ‘no deal’ Brexit would have ‘catastrophic’ impact on its member, following the publication of a proposed Brexit deal that Prime Minister Theresa May is struggling to get through Parliament.

In a tweet this morning, Miles Beale said that from the outset, the WSTA has repeatedly said a “no deal” Brexit would have a catastrophic impact on its members.

“Despite the businesses we represent putting in place contingency measures, as best they can, a “no deal” Brexit presents a multitude of difficulties which are outside of their control,” he tweeted.

“We need more time to digest the proposed deal and we will be watching intently the passage of the Withdrawal Bill through Parliament.”

Earlier this year, Beale told the WSTA conference that he had been “underwhelmed” with what he had seen from Government saying the information was “too basic and ducks most of the questions we have been asking.”

He said Brexit was by far the most significant short-term challenge facing the sector and accused the government of sidestepping questions about the risks to industry.

However, in a tweet from 10 Downing Street, drinks giant Diageo was said to congratulated the Prime Minister on reaching a deal. “As with any complex negotiation, compromise will not please everyone but it is vital for business confidence that Parliament votes in favour of this deal,” it said.

FDF chief executive Ian Wright CBE asked for “any clarity” relating to a potential agreement with the EU. “While this is a step in the right direction, uncertainty remains. Food and drink manufacturers will have to continue planning for a variety of scenarios until our politicians have cast their judgement on the suitability of this deal. This will result in businesses incurring significant costs and devoting additional time and effort to such endeavours. Until the withdrawal agreement implementation bill receives Royal Assent, the spectre of a ‘no-deal’ Brexit looms large over our industry.”

Brexit Deal

Despite winning the backing of the cabinet over the proposed Brexit deal after an extended cabinet meeting last night, the Prime Minister this morning faced a grilling in the House of Commons and a raft of ministerial resignations. This included Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab, a ‘Leave’ supporter who said he could not “in good conscience” support the UK’s draft Brexit agreement with the EU, as well as Work and Pensions Secretary Esther McVey and junior Brexit minister Suella Braverman.

Meanwhile European Council President Donald Tusk has announced an emergency meeting of the EU on 25 November to finalise and formalise the withdrawal agreement as well as a political declaration on future relations with the UK.