PRESS RELEASE: Ceramics sector cautiously welcomes tariffs consultation, but has concerns with proposed changes

Ceramic leaders have cautiously welcomed the Government’s decision to consult on the UK Global Tariff, but have concerns about their proposed changes.Laura Cohen, Chief Executive of the British Ceramic Confederation said: “We are relieved that Government have listened to our concerns and realised they have to consult on an issue that fundamentally affects the nature of our economy. An impact assessment and parliamentary scrutiny are also essential. Dr Cohen added: “We need Government to be unashamedly supportive of British manufacturing. Zero import tariffs act as a ‘double whammy’ flooding our market with cheap imports while manufacturers continue to pay export tariffs to many markets. Moreover, they weaken our hand doing trade deals, if we give away access for free to Britain who would want to do a deal with us?”“We are really concerned that government is even considering rounding down all current tariffs and also removing those they term as ‘intermediate goods’ or ‘inputs to production’ or where they deem there is what they call ‘limited domestic production’.  Our manufacturers, often making specialist and unique products, are a key part of very many complex supply chains including construction, aerospace, automotive and process industries. Their factories are at the heart of many British towns and communities, with valued jobs.“Our members have told us they want current MFN import tariffs maintained for all products they make in the UK. However, they recognise where raw materials are imported, there could be some benefits in tariff reduction, but only where there is absolutely no domestic production.”The British Ceramic Confederation, along with many other business organisations and trade unions, had previously called for the Government to hold an evidence-based consultation and impact assessment that allows all sectors of UK manufacturing to express their views on the proposed new tariffs.---ENDS---For further information please contact: Laura Cohen, Chief Executive, British Ceramic Confederation, Federation House, Station Road, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 2SA.Tel:  01782 572845 M: 07827 358613E-mail:  laurac@ceramfed.co.uk l www.ceramfed.co.uk Notes to editorsThe British Ceramic Confederation is the trade association for the UK ceramic manufacturing industry, representing the common and collective interests of all sectors of the industry. Its member companies cover the full spectrum of ceramic manufacturing, including the supply of materials, and comprise over 90% of the industry’s manufacturing capacity.