Guernsey Press

Fresh food shortage ‘could be worse than winter storms’

ISLANDERS could be left with a smaller choice of food in the event of a no-deal Brexit, potentially beyond disruption normally seen during winter storms.

Published
Islanders are used to coping with less choice of fresh food during winter storms, with a no-deal Brexit likely to have a similar impact, but with no idea how long disruption will last. (Picture by Shutterstock)

As Prime Minister Theresa May grapples with political chaos over Brexit, Guernsey’s government has again sought to reassure islanders that comprehensive planning in relation to critical supplies has been undertaken to reduce any potential discussion.

Mrs May was seeking a three-month delay to the UK leaving the EU, which is due to happen a week today.

‘Comprehensive planning for the supply of food, medicine, medical supplies, fuels and chemicals has taken place, and where it has been possible to mitigate disruption, we have done so,’ said a Policy & Resources spokesman.

‘We remain in talks with companies at all levels of the food supply chain, and all have contingency plans for a no-deal Brexit.’

The States was also continuing to work closely with the UK government over Brexit, with extensive contingency plans drawn up to prepare for the scenario of a no-deal.

‘Behind the scenes there has been – and remains – extensive discussions with industries which need to bring goods into the island, including food retailers.

‘As we have said before, a no-deal might lead to food choice being reduced, but not removed,’ said Policy & Resources.

‘This is especially true for fresh and short shelf-life foods.

‘This is not uncommon for Guernsey, with similar disruption happening during the yearly winter storms, which often prevent the boats from docking.

‘The only variable here is the potential duration of disruption.’

The States has also voiced directly to Mrs May that an orderly exit from the European Union is in Guernsey’s best interest.

Policy & Resources added that all plans were under constant review and would remain so until Brexit day.

A no-deal Brexit guide is available on gov.gg/brexitplanning and is reviewed regularly and updated with the latest information for the community.