The Scottish Government has unveiled a new online tool to help businesses identify how they could be affected by Brexit.

Constitutional Relation Secretary Michael Russell announced the service which will also provide preparatory advice going into a post-Brexit era.

Speaking at the launch, the Secretary criticised the UK Government’s support network for businesses so far in the process, citing a lack of clarity or cohesion.

Prepare for Brexit

The announcement marks the latest phase of Scotland’s ‘Prepare for Brexit’ campaign, which aims to help businesses across a broad range of sectors and sizes.

The campaign is helping companies to assess their exposure to ‘Brexit-related risks’ before directing them to the appropriate support organisations. The website is described as a “one-stop shop” to enable companies to prepare for the future, which includes an online self-assessment tool, as well as expert advice, events, workshops and financial support.

The first element of this support package was announced in June 2018, which offers grants of up to £4,000 for exporters to help mitigate risks and “capitalise on export opportunities” regardless of potential Brexit challenges.

Russell commented: “The practical advice and support being offered by the Scottish Government through our enterprise agencies will help businesses safeguard as much as they can in these circumstances.

“Of course, the best way to mitigate the worst impact of Brexit, short of staying in the EU, is continued membership of the European Single Market and Customs Union.”

Brexit Uncertainties

During a visit to Livingston-based industrial solutions supplier, Complete Storage Interiors, Russell said: “Brexit is the biggest risk facing Scotland right now, but only a third of Scottish companies are proactively planning for it. I have every sympathy with business because instead of a plan for Brexit the UK Government can still only offer a blank sheet of paper.”

Russell added that with only five months until the UK is due to leave the European Union, the Scottish Government wants to “help every business in Scotland prepare as much as is possible” and criticised UK Government’s efforts so far.

“The UK Government still cannot tell us whether there is going to be an agreement on the terms of withdrawal, let alone offer any clarity on the future trading relationship,” he said.