{UAH} Brexit: Theresa May flies out to win Angela Merkel’s support for customs plan, despite 'smugglers paradise' fears

Theresa May has flown to Berlin in a last-gasp bid to win Angela Merkel's support for her new "third way" plan for customs rules after Brexit, amid EU fears that it will be a smugglers paradise.

The details of what No 10 is calling the "facilitated customs arrangement" (FCA) were finally revealed, ahead of the prime minister jetting out for talks with the German Chancellor.

The proposal – which combines Ms May's original plan for the UK to collect EU tariffs with smart technology to smooth the process – is certain to face Brexiteer criticism that the UK would remain under Brussels' wing.

However, it also appears likely to be rejected by the EU for potentially allowing smugglers to pay a lower UK tariff at a British port before moving goods on to the EU single market.

Last month, Guy Verhofstadt, the European Parliament's Brexit coordinator, told MPs: "We cannot outsource our competences on customs duties. That will not happen."

David Davis, the Brexit Secretary, declined to comment on a report that he sent a letter to the prime minister, warning her the FCA plan is certain to be rejected.

--

*A positive mind is a courageous mind, without doubts and fears, using the experience and wisdom to give the best of him/herself.

 

 We must dare invent the future!
The only way of limiting the usurpation of power by
 individuals, the military or otherwise, is to put the people in charge  - Capt. Thomas. Sankara {RIP} '1949-1987

 *"Those who make peaceful revolution impossible will make violent

revolution inevitable"**…  *J.F Kennedy

 

--
Disclaimer:Everyone posting to this Forum bears the sole responsibility for any legal consequences of his or her postings, and hence statements and facts must be presented responsibly. Your continued membership signifies that you agree to this disclaimer and pledge to abide by our Rules and Guidelines.To unsubscribe from this group, send email to: ugandans-at-heart+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com