we start with brexit and an indication of how much effect the uk leaving the european union has had on trade in both directions across the english channel. figures compiled by the uk government show how british exports to the eu fell byjust over 40% injanuary the first month when the post brexit rules came into force. and imports from the eu were down by nearly 30%. there are of course contributing factors, like earlier stockpiling, and pandemic lockdowns. our economics correspondent, andy verity, has the details. this manchester exporter of branded clothing, much of it for corporate events that haven t been happening, has gone through what it describes as a nightmare yearjust staying in business and keeping staff safe. but now, its boss told me, far from the promised frictionless trade, it s become very difficult to export to europe. transporters and couriers are charging big extra fees to cover much more complex paperwork and taxes, pushing costs up so high that it s ha