Councils risk being overwhelmed by Brexit implementation

The Institute for Government has warned that local authorities risk being overwhelmed by Brexit implementation on 1 January, because of the urgent demands of the second wave of coronavirus.

The think tank says that local councils, trading standards officers and port health authorities are all part of the Brexit operation but may find themselves stretched because of the resurgence of the virus. The Brexit: How Ready is the UK? Report claims that, despite new resources being shifted by Whitehall, there is less capacity among the devolved governments and local authorities to handle both Brexit plans and pandemic measures.

The Institute for Government says that cooperation with local administrations will be more critical than ever, not least to understand how the double shock of coronavirus and Brexit is playing out in key areas including ports, airports and key industries that rely on cross-border supply chains or workforces.

Amongst its recommendations, the report says that the government should work closely with business groups to identify where targeted economic support for firms affected by Brexit may complement its coronavirus economic response.