Recommendation 23

The Covid-19 pandemic has had an impact on readiness for EU Exit. The Cabinet Office is concerned that the primary focus of many small businesses during this year has been the impact of the pandemic on their business, rather than preparing for EU Exit. Current levels of readiness among businesses and a decrease in travel due to the Covid-19 53 Qq 5, 2 54 Q 26 55 Committee of Public Accounts, EU Exit: Get ready for Brexit Campaign, Fourth Report of Session 2019–21, HC 131, 3 June 2020 56 Qq 39, 55–56 57 Qq 27–28 58 Qq 22, 47 59 Q 18 60 Q 47 61 Qq 23, 39 62 Q 22 16 Whitehall preparations for EU Exit pandemic mean some businesses and members of the public may not look for help or guidance until they plan to travel or import/export goods, which could be some time after the transition period has passed.63 For example, following transition individuals wishing to travel to the EU will need to check they have 6 months on their passport and, if relevant, whether they have the right health insurance, driving license and necessary information about pet travel, all of which could require actions taken in advance of travel.64 Government must therefore make sure that it has tools in place beyond the end of the transition period to support individuals and businesses respond to the changing requirements for business and travel within the EU. HMRC business helplines will still be open at the end of December.65 However, the Cabinet Office did not explain to what extent this and other support will be extended beyond EU Exit. Preparations at the border