Source · National Audit Office

The UK border: Post UK-EU transition period

Published: 5 Nov 2021 Recommendations: 4 Type: Value for Money NAO confirmed: 4

NAO report detail with recommendations, government responses, and any Public Accounts Committee follow-up.

Recommendations

4 items
4 accepted

Recommendation 1

Addressee: Cabinet Office · Source location: Page 16, paragraph 22, first bullet point

In the immediate term, the government and departments should focus on the following areas:
• Use the additional time from its revised timetable for introducing import controls to: address current risks, particularly relating to infrastructure and trader and haulier readiness; and provide the focused and detailed support and guidance that ports, hauliers, traders and passengers need to allow them to adapt to the new rules when these are introduced.

Response position: Accepted

Delivery: No longer relevant · Confirmed by NAO

Recommendation 2

Addressee: Cabinet Office · Source location: Page 16, paragraph 22, second bullet point

• Continue to monitor and understand the impact of new border arrangements on trade flows, industry sectors and the wider UK economy. This should inform a strategic approach to the withdrawal of existing support and the introduction of any further intervention or support.

Response position: Accepted

Delivery: No longer relevant · Confirmed by NAO

Recommendation 3

Addressee: Cabinet Office · Source location: Page 16, paragraph 22, third bullet point

• Prioritise efforts to streamline border processes and reduce the administrative burden on traders.

Response position: Accepted

Delivery: No longer relevant · Confirmed by NAO

Recommendation 4

Addressee: Cabinet Office · Source location: Page 16, paragraph 22, fourth bullet point

• Progress from an initial operating capability for the border, to one of full functionality, which is safe and secure, can facilitate trade and reduces the risk of non-compliance with WTO rules. This is of particular importance given the UK government’s desire to agree trade deals with a wide range of international partners.

Response position: Accepted

Delivery: No longer relevant · Confirmed by NAO