摘要: |
As the end of the Brexit transition approached and the UK prepared to reforge its future as an independent trading power, free ports are being positioned as an important catalyst to shore up the economy. The government has opened a bidding process to establish 10 free ports across the country to increase trade, attract inward investment, and promote manufacturing. Already successful in the US, but mainly banned in the EU, these free trade zones would allow goods to enter and leave the country without being subject to certain procedures or tariffs. However, the potential for large-scale development in coastal and inland areas has caused alarm among environmental groups concerned about the potentially disastrous effect on animals, such as birds, seals, and whales, and habitats across the UK. The free ports project is tied to fundamental post-Brexit reforms to the planning system and there are concerns that legislation drawn up to protect the natural environment will be swept aside in the drive to fast-track expansion. |