In response to the government’s release of no-deal Brexit papers, the Road Haulage Association (RHA) has claimed that Kent will be the U.K.’s biggest lorry park.

The Freight Transport Association said: “No-deal would be disastrous for logistics.”

Sarah Laouadi, European policy manager for the FTA, said: “While preparing for every eventuality, including a no-deal position, is a sound strategy, it should not be the end game which negotiators accept.

“There are clear problems which could face our supply chain if agreements cannot be reached including customs and border arrangements, the continuity of trade agreements and vehicle permits, as well as the continuation of business access to EU workers. Solutions for these areas are key to the continued success of British business, both at home and abroad, after 29 March 2019.”

“The UK’s supply chain is the blood in the veins of the UK’s economy, keeping schools, hospitals and businesses stocked, shop shelves full and retailers provided with the goods they need to prosper,” said Laouadi.

“Without quick progress on the key elements that FTA has outlined, the resulting disruption could have disastrous impacts for British and EU business. A no-deal agreement should only be considered once every opportunity to reach a deal has been explored. Negotiators on both sides need to keep working to ensure that Britain and the EU keep on trading, day in, day out.”

The RHA said it is disappointed that “despite its pleas for Brexit clarity, none has been forthcoming, and today’s announcements present nothing new. 

“The RHA has met with government ministers on many occasions to discuss the needs of UK transport operators and has stressed that the only way to maintain economic links on both sides of the Channel is to continue with the process of free-flowing borders. 

If that’s not going to be the case, then a no-deal Brexit will be little more than a nail in the coffin of the industry responsible for moving 98 per cent of the UK economy.”