In the last edition of SITPRO News I highlighted the work SITPRO has been doing on the review of UK trade regulatory and procedural burdens promised in the Pre-Budget Report 2008 (PBR). Since then SITPRO has completed its consultation with UK business and is now working with UK Government Departments to sift through the comments and help develop the elements of an implementation action plan. This has not been an easy task. Through the questionnaire, website and face-to-face interviews conducted, more than 500 comments and suggestions were contributed.
Not all the comments were critical. Certain border agencies, especially HMRC, came in for praise for a willingness to listen to the trade and for introducing simplifications in recent years. It is important and fair that these are recognised. As for suggestions for improvements, these have included the availability of advice and information, the complexity of some regulation including those developed within the EU, port procedures and competitiveness, and border agency
co-ordination. Business has also been encouraged to develop best practice and improve the competence of their staff through education and training.
Creating the cross-government action plan requires a period of internal consideration and planning. But rest assured, silence does not mean inactivity. We are working hard to address your concerns and issues.
Return to SITPRO News: Issue 69, Summer 2009
