Agenda item

The Port Health and Public Protection Director to be heard.

The Committee received an oral update from the Port Health and Public Protection Director on the impact of the United Kingdom leaving the European Union (Brexit) on Port Health & Public Protection. The Committee was informed that although the Government's Withdrawal Agreement Bill (WAB) was undergoing a second reading in the House of Lords on the 14 January 2020, it was widely expected that the United Kingdom will formally leave the European on the 31 January 2020. Current controls are likely to remain in place until the end of 2020 and the Government is aiming to complete the relevant negotiations before this date.

The Committee was told that access to information systems, such as TRACES will be maintained during the transition period.  Access following this will depend on the negations regarding future trading arrangements.    

A Member asked if current high standards would continue. Members were assured that the City continues to maintain a good relationship with all its colleagues across the United Kingdom and the European Union and will address any issues if and when they are raised. The service will continue to monitor the situation and will promote the six key Brexit principles agreed by this Committee. 

RESOLVED – Members noted the oral update.