Brexit planning for food supplies ​(FOI)

Request

This question is for the external relations department.

A

What preparations have been undertaken to mitigate hold ups to food supplies, should any UK food shortages transpire after Brexit, in the event of no deal?

B

What arrangements have been made to safeguard current free movement of goods (in particular food) into the Island from France, for consumption on the Island, after Brexit?

C

Will the French Christmas market be permitted into the Island in December 2019?

D

Has any consideration been given to Jersey becoming a free port, with no import tariffs other than GST, allowing importation from both UK and EU after Brexit?

Response

A

The Government of Jersey has been preparing for a potential ‘Day One No Deal’ since the referendum took place in June 2016. It is aware of the potential impacts on its supply chains, including knock-on effects from disruption to the Dover-Calais route, and it is actively preparing for any implications this may have on the Island. The Government has a strong and productive relationship with the UK government, and is working with them to ensure any impacts of Brexit are mitigated as best as possible. The recent signing of the Jersey-UK Customs Arrangement will ensure the free movement of goods between the UK and Jersey post-Brexit, a key objective for the Government.

B

The large majority of the Island’s goods, including food, are brought into the Island via the UK. The recent signing of the Jersey-UK Customs arrangement will guarantee the continuation of frictionless trade between both jurisdictions. Only a very small proportion of goods are brought in through French ports, namely St. Malo. Discussions are ongoing and planning is underway to minimise any potential delays in March next year.

C

Information is not held and contact with the organisers of the market would need to be made for any information on their plans. However, from the Government of Jersey’s perspective, this is a welcomed popular addition to the Island’s Christmas celebrations for locals and visitors alike.

D

Please refer to A and B above. Jersey has signed a Customs Arrangement with the UK which allows trade free of import tariffs and restrictions on quantities after the UK leaves the EU next March. Future arrangements with the EU and other trade partners are subject to ongoing negotiations.