London (AFP)

A Brexit without a trade agreement could be three times more costly in the long run than the coronavirus pandemic for the British economy, warns a study on Tuesday by the research center "The UK in a Changing Europe".

He warns that the impact of Covid-19 is likely to moderate or to subdue, politically and economically, that of a "no deal" at the end of the transition period which ends at the end of January.

But in the short term, a Brexit without a trade deal is "bad news" for the economic recovery and in the long term it will be "more important" than the health crisis.

The research center, which has worked with the London School of Economics, estimates that due to Brexit growth will be weaker over a long period than it would have been without leaving the EU.

It estimates the impact on gross domestic product (GDP) over fifteen years at 5.7% compared to the current level, against 2.1% for Covid-19.

These projections are made even though it is still difficult to see clearly the repercussions of the health crisis and its long-term effects, at a time when a second wave is emerging in Europe, at the risk to penalize the economy a little more.

The report reminds him that the most immediate and visible consequences of a "no deal" will be observed at the borders with risks of queues and shortages of certain foods.

The economy will be especially affected by the reestablishment of customs duties and administrative controls for trade with the continent, which will penalize businesses and households.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has given himself until October 15 to find common ground with Brussels on the post-Brexit relationship, otherwise he will opt for a "no deal".

He believes the country will be able to prosper even in the event of a brutal divorce from the EU, including by negotiating trade deals around the world.

"Although the Prime Minister said that the absence of an agreement is a" good outcome ", our report shows that it could lead to serious disruptions and have a strong economic impact," underlines Anand Menon, director of the research center.

He further warns of fallout "within the UK itself, in particular Northern Ireland, and internationally as well."

© 2020 AFP