Downing Street has refused to publish an impact assessment on its Brexit deal with the EU. The prime minister's spokesperson dismissed calls to publish the analysis, saying it had already set out the details of the deal "and the opportunities and benefits it provides the U.K."
Britain's trade deal with the EU has been marred with chronic trade disruptions at the Northern Ireland border, leading to delayed or reduced shipments of goods since the new economic relationship started on January 1. Among the worst-hit businesses are supermarkets in Northern Ireland, which have reported food shortages.
In November, the Office for Budget Responsibility said a free-trade deal with the EU would leave Britain’s gross domestic product 4% lower over the long run, compared with staying in the bloc. That prediction was made before the deal was agreed.
As explained on theneweuropean.co.uk, impact assessments are common pieces of government work that determine the economic effects of policies. In October, Britain published such a review of its new trade accord with Japan, which replaced an existing deal the country had through its membership of the EU.
Photo source: Dreamstime.com