47 recommended changes to the Brexit deal now approved

In collaboration with the UK Trade and Business Commission, a comprehensive list of 114 recommendations aimed at addressing the discrepancies in the Brexit deal initially signed in 2020 was compiled. To date, 47 of these suggestions have been implemented, marking significant progress in rectifying the issues at hand. These recommendations encompass a wide range of areas, from trade regulations to environmental protections and workforce mobility.

One of the central proposals put forth was the establishment of a bilateral council between the UK and EU to streamline regulatory processes and facilitate smoother trade relations. Additionally, an annual meeting between the two entities was recommended to discuss regulations and safeguard the Windsor Framework, ensuring that both parties uphold their commitments. Concerning cross-border trade, a commitment to maintain high food standards equivalent to those in the EU was suggested, allowing UK producers easier access to European markets.

The need to adhere to EU regulations in the event the UK deviates from them was emphasized, urging thorough cost and time assessments before any divergence was made. Moreover, it was proposed that the UK closely monitor chemical residues in food and align pesticide safety measures with EU standards to protect consumers. Ensuring that all imported food meets the same stringent standards as domestically produced food was identified as a crucial step in maintaining food safety.

To bolster trade for farmers, producers, and fishers, an SPS agreement with the EU was advocated for, promoting consumer choice and market stability. The recommendations also addressed environmental concerns, such as proposing a partnership with the EU to develop new renewable energy sources in the North Sea and collaborate on net-zero targets. Moreover, maintaining high data protection standards to facilitate data flows between the UK and EU was highlighted as essential for continued cooperation.

In terms of workforce mobility, establishing visa schemes for young people to live, work, and study in the UK and EU was suggested to foster cross-cultural exchanges and opportunities. Recognizing each other’s professional qualifications and creating pathways for short-term and freelance workers to obtain visas for cross-border employment were additional measures proposed to facilitate workforce integration.

The recommendations further touched on enhancing trading relationships with key partners, giving MPs a say in the UK-EU deal, and conducting regional-level impact assessments across the UK. Stipulating stable funding schemes for small businesses to improve trade with the EU and addressing trading barriers for smaller enterprises lacking resources were also part of the comprehensive list of suggestions aimed at driving economic growth and prosperity.