News and Views

Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership (CLEP) has established a new EU Transition team to assist Cumbrian businesses with guidance and advice as the end of the transition period approaches.

The UK left the European Union on 31 January but has operated ever since under the terms of the transition period that has kept it bound to the EU's rules. It has meant that, while in transition, the UK has remained in both the EU customs union and single market.

However, that will end on 31 December when the transition period comes to a close, bringing new challenges for businesses throughout the UK.

Jo Lappin, CLEP Chief Executive, said: “As the UK moves to enter a new trading relationship with the EU and the wider world, Government is encouraging businesses to make sure that they are ready for the changes ahead.

“There will be new rules for many businesses, which will affect different aspects of their operations, from January 2021.

“I’m therefore pleased that we have been invited to deliver a contract, on behalf of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), to support our businesses to manage the end of the transition period. It’s really important that our businesses do make the necessary preparations, over the coming weeks, so that they are ready for 1 January 2021.

“CLEP will work with local businesses to ensure that they are able to access the advice they need. We are able to offer free support and advice on all aspects of EU Transition.”

Issues for which CLEP can now offer guidance and advice include:

• Changes to import/export tariffs (EU and non EU)
• Business travel
• Customs procedures
• Product standards
• Employment and recognition of qualifications
• Delivery of services
• Logistics
• Data protection

CLEP has initially appointed a team of four EU Business Advisors, who will be responsible for sourcing Government guidance and providing appropriate advice and information to enable businesses to prepare for new trading relationships post 31 December.

Mrs Lappin added: “Our advisors have held senior roles in blue chip companies, run their own businesses and been active in many aspects of international business. Their experience covers successful periods in business development, R&D, marketing, manufacturing, supply and distribution perspective.

“They will provide businesses with advice to help them improve their management and operations, as well as providing a strong focus on financial management.

“Their roles will be to reach out to Cumbrian businesses through direct contact, via a ‘promotion of service’ campaign, and through referrals from other third party partners, such as the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), to offer valuable support.”

For further information, or to access the service, please contact Peter Fleming at info@thecumbrialep.co.uk for assistance.