19.09.2024
FEPORT attended the first joint meeting of the EU and UK Domestic Advisory Groups (DAGs) under the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA). The two DAGs, tasked with advising the TCA parties on its implementation, discussed key topics of mutual interest and explored ways to enhance cooperation towards achieving their joint objectives and ensuring effective implementation of the agreement.
Discussions focused on several key issues, including the need to ensure a level playing field for regulatory cooperation between the EU and UK. Clarifications were sought regarding the TCA’s wording on mobility and lorries, as well as the regulation of collective bargaining rights on both sides. There was also an emphasis on aligning regulatory texts concerning chemicals and addressing the climate agenda, with both sides stressing the importance of clarifying compliance requirements for businesses on the social aspects of climate regulations.
On data protection, the removal of lorry driver data protection for UK drivers operating in the EU was discussed, alongside the need for longer-term solutions for data protection alignment. It was noted that the UK government's 2023 draft Data Protection and Digital Information Bill would be discontinued. New proposals on recognizing international labour standards were introduced, and agreement was reached on mutual recognition of qualifications.
Make UK highlighted the urgent need for action on customs interoperability and VAT cooperation. They also pointed out that the UK government has shown signs of a willingness to reform regulatory cooperation. Petitioners from the UK called for greater cooperation on the Emissions Trading System (ETS) to address carbon adjustment mechanisms. Luis Santos, Deputy Director General and Chair of Business Europe’s EU-UK committee, emphasized that Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and ETS cooperation are key elements in moving towards a joint EU-UK statement.
Source: FEPORT