The UK would be vulnerable to a legal challenge from the World Trade Organisation if the government’s border policy plans are implemented. The UK government said that full border controls will not be put in place until July 2021, despite leaving the EU at the end of 2020.
This warning was privately expressed by Liz Truss, International Trade Secretary, in a letter to senior members of the cabinet that was leaked to the press. She also fears the government’s plans could damage the UK’s reputation at the World Trade Organisation and undermine its international trade policy. Some UK stakeholders say the letter validates their concerns about the UK’s readiness for the end of the transition period at the end of December 2020.
Prime Minister Johnson is expected to publish soon the Government’s full plans on border controls.