Food cost is a concern following Brexit

CONCERN is growing over the consequences of Brexit and food price rises, according to a newly released survey.

Research for consumer magazine Which? shows that nearly six months after the EU referendum almost half the population (47%) are worried about withdrawal.

The figure has risen eight points since September.

The number of those concerned about food costs has also climbed, from 50% to 58% in the same period, according to the bi-monthly Consumer Insight Tracker online survey of around 2,000 households.

The number of people expressing fears over the exchange rate of sterling has increased from 44% to 53%, and 39% said they were anxious about holiday prices, a question not previously asked.

The research also found worries that the impact on consumers would not be paramount in withdrawal negotiations, with just 31% saying their interests would be represented in the divorce talks with Brussels.

This compares with 72% who believe that consumer interests are either very or fairly important in the Brexit negotiations.

This is higher than the amount of people, 62%, who think the interests of large businesses are either very or fairly important in the talks.

Which? called for the Government to champion the interests of consumers in the negotiations, including gaining agreements on prices, protections, and roaming charges.