As the countdown to Brexit on 29th March continues we have a few Government updates on specific topics as follows:
Government has launched an industry-focussed campaign led by Defra to make businesses aware of the actions they need to take to prepare for the changes in chemical regulations (REACH) that would occur if the UK left the EU without a deal.
In this campaign, they will disseminate material intended to help businesses understand if they would have any REACH obligations in a no-deal scenario and signpost them to further guidance (such as the Additional Guidance see here). We will aim to provide further information and updates as they become available.
The guidance is available at: hse.gov.uk/euexitreach If you have further questions, please contact:REACH-IT@defra.gov.uk.
___________________
In December HMRC wrote to VAT-registered businesses that trade only with the EU advising them to take 3 actions to prepare for a no deal EU Exit, including registering for an UK Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number.
Businesses that only trade with the EU will need an EORI number:
• to continue to import or export goods with the EU after 29 March 2019, if the UK leaves the EU without a deal; and
• before they can apply for authorisations that will make customs processes easier.
Businesses can register for an EORI number at www.gov.uk/hmrc/get-eori.
_____________________
The Home Office have launched their EU settlement scheme. All the information on the scheme can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/settled-status-eu-citizens-families. In particular it is worth highlighting the fees section:
On 21 January the Prime Minister announced that there will be no fee when the scheme opens fully on 30 March 2019. Anyone who has applied already, or who applies and pays a fee during the test phases, will have their fee refunded. Details of the refunds process will be published shortly.
If you want to apply now, the fee (which will be refunded) is:
•£65 if you’re 16 or over
•£32.50 if you’re under 16
It will be free to apply if you already have a valid ‘UK permanent residence document’ or you already have indefinite leave to remain in or enter the UK.
______________________
The UK Government’s Partnership Pack for a ‘no deal’ Brexit can be found here. This covers wide ranging guidance on numerous topics.
