Hounslow Council Making Contingency Plans For Brexit
Changes in supply of goods and services could impact local community
A report on how Hounslow Council is preparing for the UKs exit of the European Union was approved by the Cabinet on 12 February.
The Council says that the run up to and beyond 29 March 2019 will be a time of significant uncertainty – from the impact on individuals of changes to status to changes to the supply chain for vital goods and services and to the potential impact on businesses.
Issues in the supply chain for vital goods and services may impact on the provision of services that councils are responsible for but may also be a particular concern in Hounslow where many residents and businesses rely on Heathrow either directly or indirectly for their work.
Cllr Katherine Dunne, Cabinet Member for Communities and Workforce, said, "We have a very diverse community in Hounslow, with many EU citizens living and working here. We want to reassure residents and businesses that everyone is valued, and we will do all we can to support them through this time of confusion and change.”
The Council has set up a website where people can look for information, whether for businesses and employers or information on matters such as passports, or driving abroad.
All EU nationals in the UK are being encouraged by the Home Office to register for Settled Status by 30 June 2021 providing there is a deal. In the case of a ‘no deal’ the deadline for registering will be 31 December 2020.
Cllr Pritam Grewal, Cabinet Member for Customer Services and Corporate
Performance said, “We will plan to minimise any disruption to residents
and businesses and, along with other councils, will lobby central government
for the resources and powers needed to manage this situation.”
February 17, 2019