Consumers ‘shocked’ by possible impact of an exit

MILLIONS OF consumers could face “immediate” and “catastrophic” consequences in the event of a no-deal Brexit, the watchdog Which? has said.

The consumer group said the Government’s preparations for a no-deal exit suggested a reduction in consumer rights and choice as well as price hikes that would have a “direct and hard” impact in areas ranging from travel to food and energy.

The watchdog, which based its conclusions on its assessment of the Government’s technical notices in preparation for the event of a no-deal Brexit, online forums and surveys, said two in five people did not understand the potential implications of a no-deal scenario.

In a report on no deal, Which? said: “When the everyday repercussions and Government’s plans on issues such as food and medical supplies were explained to people in our research, many people were shocked and questioned why they had not been made aware of the implications sooner.”

A survey for the watchdog found three quarters of people thought it was likely a no-deal Brexit would lead to higher prices for food and other items and delays at the border for travellers and holidaymakers.

Three in five expected disruption to food supplies due to border delays, while 60 per cent expected higher energy costs and 57 per cent believed there would be some flight restrictions, while 44 per cent thought medicine shortages were likely.

Populus surveyed 2,056 British adults online between August 3-5 and 2,100 British adults online between September 19-20.

Theresa May talks to employees at WPP who have come through micro fellowships and apprenticeships, after a meeting with business leaders whose companies are inaugural signatories of the Race at Work Charter, at the Southbank Centre in London.