The Transport Select Committee held an oral evidence session on Wednesday (14th October) examining Brexit preparedness in transport. High Peak MP Robert Largan joined colleagues in hearing from Rachel Maclean MP, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Transport, Elizabeth de Jong, Director of Policy at Logistics UK, Richard Burnett, Chief Executive of the Road Haulage Association, and Richard Ballantyne, Chief Executive Officer of the British Ports Association.

Robert asked the Minister about the Government’s planning for the end of the transition period, including what facilities will be available for lorry drivers if they are waiting in queues at Dover. During this line of questioning, Robert asked:

“We all want to see a long-term trade deal reached between the UK and the EU, but it is absolutely right that we have to prepare for all eventualities. The Chairman has just referred to the Government’s own reasonable worst-case scenario, which talks about potential queues of up to 7,000 lorries on the roads in Kent. What is being done to prepare for and manage the impact of that worst-case scenario?”

This was followed by questions from Robert for industry experts regarding the IT systems being set up to reduce friction at the border.

Robert Largan commented:

“As we look at ways to build back better from the Coronavirus crisis, it is essential that we continue investing in transport and ensuring the smooth travel of goods after the transition period with the EU has ended.

“The hearing was a good opportunity to scrutinise the plans being made to manage any possible congestion or disruption at the border after Brexit. While it is in the interests of both sides to reach a long-term trade deal, it is absolutely right that we prepare for all outcomes.”