BREXIT ON THE BRINK? Leaked memo predicts SIX MONTH delay as Cabinet clashes
BREXIT could be delayed by six months after a leaked memo revealed Whitehall may need 30,000 extra civil servants to work on more than 500 new projects.
Theresa May WARNS MPs 'the people have spoken'
Theresa May confirmed that she intended to trigger Article 50 and start Brexit talks by the end of March, although the memo allegedly suggests that Whitehall civil servants are unable to cope with the huge workload and tight schedule.
The document reportedly reads: “Individual departments have been busily developing their projects to implement Brexit, resulting in well over 500 projects, which are beyond the capacity and capability of Government to execute quickly.”
Individual departments have been busily developing their projects to implement Brexit, resulting in well over 500 projects, which are beyond the capacity and capability of Government to execute quickly
Government departments are reportedly pushing for more staff to cope with the Brexit workload, although Philip Hammond is not expected to allow them to spend more on staff when he delivers the Autumn Statement next week.
The Chancellor will reportedly opt to increase infrastructure funding instead, with the memo stating: “We are more likely to see a further squeeze on departmental operating costs to compensate for new spending”.
The document also revealed fears that other “major players” in industry could “point a gun at the Government’s head” following the special treatment given to car manufacturer Nissan.
Theresa May insists 'change is in the air'
Nissan were recently assured by officials that they would not suffer as a result of Britain’s impending exit from the EU.
Now other influential businesses are said to be seeking the same company-specific promises as Britain’s post-Brexit future remains uncertain.
According to The Times, the note is also critical of Prime Minister Theresa May’s governing style, stating that her tendency to take decisions herself, rather than consult others, is unsustainable and could lead to unrest within the Cabinet.
The Cabinet is reportedly already experiencing big divisions over Brexit, with Boris Johnson, Brexit Minister David Davis and International Trade Secretary Liam Fox - described in the memo as “the three Brexiteers” - on one side, and Mr Hammond and Business Secretary Greg Clark on the other.
In response to the note, a Downing Street spokesman told The Times: “This is not a Government report and we don’t recognise the claims made in it.
“We are focused on getting on with the job of delivering Brexit and making a success of it.”