UK car industry tells Boris Johnson no-deal Brexit ‘not an option’
Representatives for the UK car industry have warned Prime Minister Boris Johnson that a no-deal Brexit is “not an option”.
In an open letter to the new Conservative Party leader the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said Johnson must help ensure that the sector “continues to enjoy preferential trade with critical markets around the world”.
Read more: No deal Brexit could deliver ‘knockout’ blow to UK car industry
“A no-deal Brexit presents an existential threat to our industry,” wrote Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive.
“We are highly integrated with Europe, and a no-deal Brexit would result in high tariff costs and disruption that would threaten production, as well as further undermining international investor’s confidence in the UK.
“We need a deal with the EU that secures frictionless and tariff free trade. No-deal Brexit is simply not an option.”
The letter also demanded that transitioning to zero emission vehicles and making the UK an attractive investment destination were top priorities.
Read more: UK car industry sees worst month for six years in May
A survey of British car makers found that the industry had its worst month for business conditions in six and a half years in May, due to the effect of Brexit and a global slowdown in growth.
Manufacturers have also been struggling because the positive effect of stockpiling before the original Brexit date of 29 March has worn off.