Question to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the assessment of the Governor of the Bank of England that there may not be enough space in warehouses for UK manufacturers to stockpile goods in preparation for Brexit.

The Government continues to work towards a deal with the EU – this is very much in the interest of the EU as well as the UK – and we are committed to supporting vital industries under any EU exit scenario. Extensive engagement has taken – and is taking – place between Government and industry – including the manufacturing sector – to communicate the actions that businesses can take in preparation for EU exit, and to explore the implications of different scenarios on each sector.

We have taken a number of positive steps to ensure that both people, and businesses are prepared for EU Exit, including:

• Publishing more than 100 pages of guidance for businesses on processes, and procedures at the border;
• Contacting 145,000 businesses who trade with the EU, and making them aware of future customs procedures;
• Advising hundreds of ports, traders, pharmaceutical firms, and other organisations that use the border on issues concerning their supply chains; and
• Providing £8m to support private customs intermediaries, and traders to increase their capacities, and train employees in preparation for EU exit.

Businesses can search the public information campaign pages for further up to date material on the considerations of EU exit for businesses, and the practical steps that they will need to take in preparation.