Sajid Javid has announced a £2.1bn cash boost in order to prepare the UK for a no-deal Brexit.
Mr Javid said that £1.1bn will go to departments and the devolved administrations immediately, with a further £1bn being made available if needed.
The funding will go towards ensuring Government departments step up ‘vital operational preparations’ for when the UK leaves the European Union on 31 October.
These include border and customs operations, critical medical supplies, support for UK nationals abroad, and an awareness campaign.
‘With 92 days until the UK leaves the European Union it’s vital that we intensify our planning to ensure we are ready,’ said Mr Javid.
‘We want to get a good deal that abolishes the anti-democratic backstop. But if we can’t get a good deal, we’ll have to leave without one.
‘This additional £2.1bn will ensure we are ready to leave on 31 October – deal or no deal.’
The extra cash brings the total amount of money available for Brexit preparations to £6.3bn.
In a report on the impact of a 'no-deal' Brexit, published at the weekend, the CBI – the lobby group for British businesses – concluded that 'no one is ready for no deal' and warned the consequences of no deal 'will be felt for years to come – acting as a self-inflicted drag on the UK’s economy for the next decade and more.'
