COVENTRY, UK — The British Coatings Federation (BCF) welcomed the publication of the government's white paper, "The United Kingdom's Exit From and New Partnership with The European Union," which was released on July 12, 2018.

The white paper explores the UK's desired future relationship with the EU, the UK coatings industry's largest trading partner. The paper includes the suggestion of a free trade area to ensure the continuation of frictionless, fair trade between the UK and the EU.

Tom Bowtell, Chief Executive of the BCF, said, "The government's white paper is a step in the right direction for the coatings industry, although it's important to note that these terms still need to be accepted by the EU. We welcome the white paper's intention for the UK to stay part of the European Chemicals Agency, meaning our members and the companies within their supply chains could stay within the REACH regulatory framework. Moreover, the UK contributes a high standard of scientific opinion and debate to the chemical regulatory processes, which would be lost if the EU did not accept the UK's negotiating position."

Ellen Daniels, Head of Public Affairs and Policy at the BCF, said, "Given the importance of our industry across all the supply chains in UK manufacturing, we're pleased the white paper reflects some of the concerns of the coatings industry. It highlights that the proposed new free trade area would protect highly integrated supply chains and just-in-time processes, which is integral to the paints, coatings, printing inks and wallcoverings sectors."