Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what contingency plans he has with respect to the UK's future relationship with the EU in the event of manufacturers encountering difficulties with importing components after the transition period.

The Government has provided extensive guidance to traders to support them in their preparations for the end of the transition period, including publishing the detailed Border Operating Model to help traders take the necessary steps.

Recognising the impact of coronavirus on businesses’ ability to prepare, the UK Government has taken the decision to introduce the new border controls in three stages up until 1 July 2021. From 1 January to 30 June, traders when importing non-controlled EU goods to GB will have the option to make a declaration in their own records at the time of import followed by a supplementary declaration up to 175 days later, which provides traders and intermediaries with more time to prepare.

HMRC continue to work closely with industry to ensure they are engaging with the new requirements and can take the necessary steps to prepare, including through the latest public information campaign, cross-Government industry steering groups, webinars and events.

HMRC will continue to engage with industry beyond the end of the transition period to understand any concerns and identify any further support that HMRC can provide.