The British fashion industry has spoken, and it warns of being at a “real risk of decimation” by the post-Brexit trade deal with the European Union (EU). Over 400 industry figures signed an open letter from the Fashion Roundtable to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, arguing there was a “gaping hole” in his deal where free movement of goods and services for creatives was expected. They said the agreement had failed to deliver on promises of frictionless future trade.
The open letter, signed by models like Twiggy, and designers including Katharine Hamnett, urged the PM to take specific steps to address their issues. The concerns echo those of other sectors who argue the bureaucratic regime stands to endanger the future of their industries.
The letter read, “We have been disregarded in this deal and our concerns overlooked in current policy decisions. We call on the government to stand by their commitment to frictionless work travel from British creatives, including the fashion and textile industry and their equipment.” Their demands include adding more reciprocal elements to the agreement in areas such as VAT, making it easier for garment workers to come to Britain.
The letter stated, “Ours is a thriving industry, based on global leadership, complex supply chain and above all, a deeply interconnected relationship with our overseas colleagues.” It added that the sector contributes £35 billion to UK GDP and employs almost one million people, but was “at real risk of decimation by the Brexit trade deal and current government policy.”
