Disorderly Brexit cannot be an option

Negotiators should aim to achieve a smooth exit of the UK from the EU. Companies need certainty regarding the withdrawal agreement and clarity about the future EU-UK relationship, including the envisaged timeline, as soon as possible. It is in the interest of both the European Union and the United Kingdom to pursue mutually beneficial relations in the future in a level playing field environment.

Markus J. Beyrer, Director General of BusinessEurope, said: “BusinessEurope stands ready to play a constructive role in the search of solutions to establish a sound and balanced new model for EU-UK relations. BusinessEurope therefore urges negotiators on both sides to reach the withdrawal agreement without delay so as to be able to focus as early as feasible on transitional arrangements where appropriate and finally on the future relation.  The status of EU-27 citizens in the UK and UK citizens in the EU-27 should be clarified firstly.”

BusinessEurope calls on negotiators to ensure that the new model that will govern EU-UK relations after Brexit is in line with the following principles:

• It preserves the integrity of the Single Market based on its four freedoms;
• It maintains as close economic relations as possible between the EU and the UK;
• It organises a smooth transition towards a future trade agreement, to allow business to prepare and adjust to the new situation as soon as possible;
• It mitigates the adverse effects of Brexit for companies and citizens;
• It provides legal certainty as soon as possible by delivering achievable solutions in a reasonable and predictable period of time.
• Discussions should involve all relevant stakeholders in order to properly tackle all issues including customs duties and procedures, market access and regulatory convergence.