The UK Government announced a £705m investment package yesterday (July 12) to fund infrastructure, jobs and technology at the GB-EU border.
Included in the package is up to £470m to build the port and inland infrastructure to support new customs procedures and controls.
A £235m investment is set to go into staffing and IT systems, with more than £100m to develop HMRC systems, £20m for new Border Force equipment and £10m to recruit around 500 more personnel. £15m will also be used to build new data infrastructure to improve management and flow.
Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Michael Gove said:
“We are taking back control of our borders, and leaving the single market and the customs union at the end of this year bringing both changes and significant opportunities for which we all need to prepare. That is why we are announcing this major package of investment today.
“With or without further agreement with the EU, this £705 million will ensure that the necessary infrastructure, tech and border personnel are in place so that our traders and the border industry are able to manage the changes and seize the opportunities as we lay the foundations for the world’s most effective and secure border.”
The transition period with the European Union will end on January 1 2021, when the UK will leave the single market and customs union.
Today (July 13) the Government is launching a major campaign to help businesses and individuals prepare for the end of the transition period.
‘The UK’s new start: let’s get going’ will set out the opportunities available as a result of new free trade agreements and amended regulation for small businesses.
The new strapline “Check, Change, Go” will direct people and businesses to a checker tool, helping them to identify any necessary next steps for preparation.
