Fuel supplies to the island are not expected to be interrupted in the event of a no-deal Brexit - but there could be disruption to the flow of fresh food.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle says the Manx government has been working for many months to prepare for a potential no-deal scenario.

’I am confident that we are as fully prepared as we can be at this stage. This does not mean we are being complacent,’ he said.

Focus on these preparations has been the security and continuity of the supply of fuel, medicines and food to the island.

Fuel oil and petrol come from outside the EU and are refined in the UK and then shipped to the Isle of Man. Gas is supplied via a pipeline from the UK.

There is no interruption expected to these supplies from a no-deal Brexit.

In respect of medicines, the Manx NHS will be treated the same as any UK health trust.

Food is supplied through distribution centres and wholesalers in the UK and Mr Quayle said there may be reduction in the availability of some fresh food, particularly that which is imported through Dover.

’However, we are working to ensure minimal disruption,’ he said.

Mr Quayle said there have been regular discussions with the UK on contingency planning at which the island’s particular needs have been put across.

He said the UK is addressing supply chain issues, and assurances have been given that we will be factored into UK plans.

Customs and Excise has sent letters directly to traders, freight, transport and cargo companies advising of actions they need to take now.

These include registering for a UK Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) Number which they will need to continue to import and export goods with the EU after March 29 if the UK leaves the EU without a deal.

The Department for Enterprise has been in talks with a number of industry bodies and has prepared advice to businesses which is to be issued later this week.

Mr Quayle said he was still hopeful that a negotiated settlement could be reached with the EU.

But in the event of a no-deal, Treasury would make additional funds available.

He added: ’We might have to have extra people to man to the ports. That sort of planning has been going on for a while now.

’But the UK is now ratcheting up the ante on a no-deal scenario.’