It is hard to find a single direct cause of the UK’s supply chain problems, but the evidence of the issue is visible. Some of the most pressing current problems are:
- A severe shortage of HGV drivers
- Critical medical appointments being cancelled
- Increases in prices in supermarkets
- Lack of goods on shelves in retail businesses
- Panic buying at fuelling stations
- Workforce shortages in critical areas, such as in social care, the service industry and hospitality
The main reason the current crisis is unprecedented is because of a combination of factors linked to Brexit and the Coronavirus pandemic. Other European countries have moved towards a post-pandemic recovery, but the UK has had several unique challenges.
Issues caused by Brexit
Brexit has been a significant contributor to the country’s issues. European workers used to be free to travel to the UK where they could work without restrictions. Now, they have to apply for an employment visa.
The most common, the Skilled Worker Visa, has a long list of requirements. These include a minimum salary level, minimum English language level, a pre-approved job offer from an eligible UK employer with a Sponsor Licence.
Many roles in the affected industries (agriculture, food manufacturing, and road transport) do not qualify for Skilled Worker Visas.
Supply chain problems caused by COVID-19
Some of the problems are attributable to the coronavirus pandemic. The latest Office for National Statistics figures shows that 5% of EU nationals who were employed in the UK in 2019 have now left the country. This includes an estimated 14,000 EU HGV drivers – a 39% decrease.
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