Fresh food lags in third on no-deal priority list
Importing fresh food through the port of Dover would only be the government’s third highest priority in the event of a no-deal Brexit later this year, it has emerged.
Brexit secretary Steve Barclay confirmed that life-saving drugs and medical devices used by the NHS would take precedence over food, followed by parts for nuclear power plants. The details surfaced days before Boris Johnson is expected to be named as the UK’S next prime minister, having run on a promise of leaving the EU on 31 October if no agreement is reached.
Mr Johnson was reported to have been left “visibly shaken” after being briefed last week by civil servants who told him to expect public unrest if he follows through on his threat.
In a meeting with Sir Mark Sedwill, the head of the civil service, Mr Johnson also said he wanted to launch an advertising campaign to ensure businesses are prepared for a no-deal Brexit.
It was reported that ministers have prepared a list of priority goods to be imported through key ports following such a scenario, with chemicals to purify drinking water only coming fifth.
Further contingency planning provides for 8,500 troops to be deployed to deal with transport blockages and possible civil unrest, with Ministry of Defence staff trained to deal with traffic jams and tailbacks at ports.
Mr Barclay said it was no great “revelation” that ministers had drawn up a list of the most important items for importing, pointing out that it was also in the EU’S interests to maintain a smooth flow for UK exports.