The driver shortage is not entirely due to Brexit but symptomatic of the way this has coincided with other issues, bringing a need for solutions.
Brexit is behind us in a sense, more than 5 years have passed since the referendum but negotiations go on. The UK’s relationship with Europe will continue to evolve, although neither party seem ready to put matters behind them.
The financial settlement (divorce bill) agreed in October 2019 epitomises ongoing disputes. That agreement is being interpreted differently by both sides and with payments due over a number of years, may continue to be.
Disagreement has arisen because a methodology was chosen to calculate the bill, rather than a tighter agreement. A lack of detail which also runs through the last minute deal in December 2020 and leaves as much open as closed.
The service sector barely figured in the deal, neither did clear solutions emerge on labour needs. The freight industry was not brilliantly served, at a time when we have a global pandemic and unexpected delays, from China to the Panama Canal.
Learning To Manage
We wouldn’t pretend the post Brexit period has been a pleasure but Dynamic are fortunate, with experienced logistics staff used to coping with change. Smaller freight operators who are also vital to trade are suffering more.
Other businesses sectors and regions have been hit, with Northern Ireland a clear example. The protocol in place has seen both the UK and EU instigate legal manoeuvres, when the need is for forward looking answers.
Everyone in business appreciates that negotiating deals, or disputes is not always easy. The freight sector remains ready to support the country whatever the outcome and is by nature an adaptable, quick learning industry.
A rational balance will still help, created by serious engagement from both parties. The consistent EU fallback of just follow our rules and the UK’s battle cry of national sovereignty both need toning down.
The UK has left the EU, politics can take a back seat, with both sides now needing to learn to regrow a shared relationship.
Looking To The Future
Foreign policy, or defence cooperation were not covered by the deal, yet we remain allies and have shared aims. Neither do we wish to weaken resolve, at a time when other major nations are becoming more assertive.
Succeeding in wider areas, from human rights, to environmental needs will also need cooperation. The hope is that the same principle can be applied to post Brexit trade, that we can remain neighbours, rather than strangers.
The UK sought maximum independence from EU rules, the EU vied to protect its integrity. Finding ways to serve both and avoid unfair competition is not an easy task but one that can be managed with the will to do so.
There are legal safeguards in place meant to maintain a balance but the best way is by friendly agreement. More use than barriers, red tape and strained relations, which in the end assist neither party.
If we can help whilst matters settle down, please get in touch. Our hope, as is the case across most UK businesses, is for economic and practical needs to be the focus going forward.
