Your overview of political and economic news with a focus on the food and consumer goods industry, featuring the latest developments and guidance on COVID-19 and adapting to a new relationship with the EU.
COVID-19 restrictions
The First Minister of Wales has announced that the country’s COVID-19 lockdown will be extended for the next three weeks.
The First Minister of Scotland has announced that the lockdown there has also been extended until at least the middle of February.
Lockdown restrictions in Northern Ireland have been extended until 5 March.
The Prime Minister has promised a plan for how lockdown in England could be eased, including criteria involved, in the final week of February.
Quarantine requirements
The government has announced further measures to minimise travel across international borders and reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. This includes:
- Those travelling out of the UK to declare a reason for travel
- Reviewing travel exemptions
- Increased police enforcement at ports and airports
- British and Irish Nationals, or third country nationals with residence rights in the UK arriving in the UK from countries where there are international travel bans will be required to isolate in hotels for 10 days
Absence
Absence rates due to COVID-19 are reported to be plateauing, and for some organisations declining, though they remain challenging in regions where community transmission of COVID-19 is high.
Export Health Certificates
Some businesses are still experiencing significant challenges in moving goods from Great Britain to the island of Ireland and to mainland Europe. Many food products will need to be pre-notified and accompanied by Export Health Certificates (EHCs). However, there are concerns about a lack of experienced vets to sign-off EHCs.
There are also reports of inconsistencies in interpretation of EHCs requirements by member states. The government is engaging with member states the European Commission to seek agreement on a common interpretation of EHCs.
Movement Assistance Scheme
The scope of the Movement Assistance Scheme (MAS) is expected to be extended shortly to include support for the certification requirements for organic products. Expanded guidance has been promised.
The (MAS) is a UK government initiative, intended to support movement of agri-food goods from GB to NI. The MAS pays for any admin costs and fees incurred by traders (e.g.: fees paid to vets for endorsing Export Health Certificates). The MAS is distinct from the Trader Support Service (TSS), which is an information and advice resource.
EU Exit support for businesses
The UK government has issued guidance specifically for food and drink businesses.
IGD has also provided additional support to help businesses with EU Exit. Businesses may also wish to refer to the EU EXIT Foodhub, an FAQ website for food and drink businesses