Following on from the release of the UK government’s long-awaited White Paper on Brexit, John Dugmore, Chief Executive of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, says he is pleased businesses now have a more comprehensive understanding of the Government’s aspirations for the UK’s future relationship with the European Union. But he also has some reservations.

“Even with the welcome direction of travel in the White Paper, companies in Suffolk still don’t know how they’ll be paying VAT, how they can move people between offices, or whether goods will get across borders with a minimum of fuss”, Mr Dugmore commented. “Momentum and pace are now needed to translate ambition into answers to the real-world, practical questions that businesses face.”

Suffolk Chamber is offering its support to local exporting businesses who are currently exporting with the latest international trade information, links to business support and a dedicated Brexit resource to help businesses consider the changes that Brexit may bring, and to help business planning at both operational and board levels.

“Many of the real-world answers can only emerge through negotiations - so it’s time for the two sides to crack on and get to a deal,” Mr Dugmore added. “And we have said many times, and will say again, that the UK government must deliver clarity wherever the answers to business questions are entirely within the UK’s own control.”