Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of reports that UK small businesses may need to be represented by an agent to trade with the EU Single Market after Brexit.

It remains government policy to secure a deal with the EU but, in the event of a no deal, trade with the EU will become subject to customs controls as is the case now for trade with the rest of the world.

Businesses will need to consider, based on their own circumstances, how they want to engage with the customs system in the future. Most currently choose to appoint a customs agent to make declarations for them, but they can also use commercial software to self-serve. Recognising business concerns, HMRC has introduced a number of temporary easements to help business and to maintain the flow of trade across borders. Businesses should apply for an EORI on-line now and where appropriate, register for Transitional Simplified Procedures (TSP).