Here is a round-up of the top Brexit-related stories this week.

Business Solutions Priority Among Negotiations
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has put forward key priorities for the government to consider for the upcoming Brexit negotiations.

The report, based on feedback from over 400 businesses, outlines several key areas including:

• Trade – minimising tariffs and seal existing free trade agreements with third countries
• Customs – develop future customs procedures in partnership with businesses
• Tax – provide clarity on VAT legislation to help businesses through the transition process
• Regulation – ensure stability with EU regulations into UK law and products are aligned for competitiveness.

Adam Marshall, director general at BCC, said:

“Business communities across the UK want practical considerations, not ideology or politics, at the heart of the government’s approach to Brexit negotiations.”

Reduce Financial Pressure on Farmers
NFU Mutual has called for the chancellor to use the upcoming Spring Budget to provide further clarity and support to farmers.

Tim Price, rural affairs specialist said that farmers are unable to make long-term investment due to the uncertainty about agricultural and export opportunities.

“We are urging the chancellor to support farmers and the rural community – by simplifying both business and inheritance tax rules and avoid introducing measures that could add more financial stress to rural businesses.”

Economists Predict Long-term Effect on GDP
UK GDP growth is forecast to decline to 1.6% in 2017 and to 1.3% in 2018, according to the Oxford Economics.

Economic prospects have been driven by the uncertainty of trade agreements as figures also predict that the UK economy could be 3% smaller by 2030 once the country leaves the European Union.

Andrew Goodwin, lead UK economist at Oxford Economics, said:

“If the government is able to agree a transitional arrangement with the EU and make progress on a free-trade agreement then the impact of Brexit is likely to be fairly modest within our forecast horizon of 2021.”

Talk to us today about how Brexit will affect you and your business.