Following a public hearing in the European Parliament on Brexit and the transport sector, MEP Bernd Lange hosted a debate to further discuss Brexit’s impact on mobility. In the face of numerous uncertainties, MEPs and transport sector stakeholders clearly want to maintain streamlined mobility with the UK.

In his opening remarks, MEP Bernd Lange expressed his concerns saying: “The automotive industry is a key area for jobs, innovation and growth and it is embedded in highly integrated global supply chains. That´s why we must make sure that there is a fair and stable post-Brexit perspective for the industry.”

Representing the motor manufacturers and traders of the UK, Sydney Nash, Head of Policy at the Public Policy and Vehicle Legislation Department in SMMT, illustrated the debate with regulatory and legal challenges the industry will face, with examples from chemical registrations and type-approval.

Speaking on behalf of the TUI Group, Ralf Pastleitner, Director International Public Policy & EU Affairs, explained the potential impacts of the UK’s withdrawal of the EU on tourism and aviation, calling for more stability and predictability.

Pauline Bastidon, Head of European Policy at the UK’s Freight Transport Association, explained the implications of Brexit to transport services and access to markets, also presenting potential solutions to envisioned customs border issues.

In her closing remarks, MEP Jacqueline Foster, UK’ Conservative Party Transport spokesperson, also highlighted the importance of the aviation sector in the Brexit negotiations and mentioned “In these uncertain times, it is important to note that the UK will not be looking to roll back on social responsibility and employment legislation. As much as possible, we will maintain legislative standards that will allow for smooth continued trade and interaction with the EU. Road users and the transport sector value chain should be aware that we will strive to ensure continuity post-Brexit”.

After six rounds of negotiations between the EU and the UK, it is still uncertain how much Brexit will affect mobility in Europe. The Forum for Mobility & Society invited speakers from different areas of the transport sector to highlight the challenges.

Programme:

18:30 – 19:15 – Debate followed by brief discussion:

Introduction by MEP Bernd Lange

Sydney Nash, Head of Policy at the UK’s Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders
Ralf Pastleitner, Director International Public Policy & EU Affairs at the TUI Group
Pauline Bastidon, Head of European Policy at the UK’s Freight Transport Association

Closing remarks by MEP Jacqueline Foster

19:30 – 20:30 – Networking Cocktail

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SET OF PICTURES