Agenda item

To consider a report by the Chief Officer (Strategy and Improvement) which provides an update on preparations that Leeds City Council, working with partners, has been making to prepare for the UK’s exit from the European Union legally scheduled to take place on 29 March 2019.

(Report attached)

The Chief Officer (Strategy and Improvement) submitted a report which provided an update on the preparations that Leeds City Council, working with partners, had been making to prepare for the UK’s exit from the European Union legally scheduled to take place on 29 March 2019.

Members were informed that a strategic response plan had been put together to provide a framework to deal with the uncertainty in the build up to and the response phase after the UK’s exit. The plan was structured around five key themes which had been identified following extensive engagement both internally within the council and across the wider city, much of which had been done as part of our business as usual engagement activity. The key themes were: infrastructure and supplies, business and economic impact, community, media and communications, and organisational impact.

Members queried the extent of the working relationship between the Government and the City Council on issues such as the supply of fuel and medicines.

Members were informed that good working relationships with Government Departments had been established through the use of Local Resilience Forums who were working with multi – agencies. It was also suggested that local government provide a key role in communicating with partners and businesses.

Concern was expressed about the supply of freight and the implications on the supply chain.

Officers reported that the situation remained unclear, there were many unanswered questions and the impact on the supply chain was not known.

The Chair queried if there would be any implications for Leeds / Bradford Airport

In responding the Chief Officer, Strategy and Improvement said only 3% of the business at LBA accounted for freight, other airports across the country had far higher rates. In respect of passenger numbers and potential delays in travelling, the peak period would be over the summer months and planning for this period had already taking place.

Members requested if further details on the implication for Leeds/ Bradford Airport as a result of the UK exiting the European Union could be prepared and circulated to Members of the Committee.

Members were assured the requested information would be provided.

A query was raised over possible implications for EU Funding, the Chief Officer Financial Services said the European Union would continue to honour schemes up to the 31^st March 2019.

The Chair sought further details about Workforce Planning

Members were informed that the status of EU Nationals was unclear, many had chosen to leave the country due to uncertainty. It was reported that there were not significant numbers employed within the health or social care sectors in Leeds compared to other areas. It was also noted that an EU Citizens Settlement Scheme is being implemented.

The Chair thanked the Chief Officer (Strategy and Improvement) for her attendance and her insight on the preparations for Brexit.

RESOLVED –

(i)  That the contents of the report by noted

(ii)  That further details on the implication for Leeds/ Bradford Airport as a result of the UK exiting the European Union be prepared and circulated to Members of the Committee.