COVENTRY, UK — The British Coatings Federation (BCF) has published its “No Deal Guide” for members, aimed at supporting the industry for the potential impact Brexit may have on their businesses.

The guide presents the “worst-case scenario,” where the UK would no longer have access to the EU single market, customs union or the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) from March 30, 2019, or January 1, 2021, depending on whether an implementation period has been negotiated. The document covers areas such as customs, regulations, transport, VAT and immigration.

The guide comes after the UK Government published its technical notice, “Regulating Chemicals (REACH) if There’s no Brexit Deal.” The BCF previously welcomed the Brexit White Paper published in the summer, stating the UK’s intention to stay part of ECHA.

Ellen Daniels, Head of Public Affairs and Policy at the BCF, said, “The BCF is currently working closely with the UK Government to ensure a good outcome from Brexit negotiations for our industry, hopefully to keep the UK within ECHA. 98% of BCF members have some form of trade with the EU, and given there is a possibility of a stalemate, we felt it prudent to inform members of the potential impact [of] a ‘no deal’ situation, and possible contingency plans member companies might consider.”