Additional Customs officers will be in place in the event of a no-deal Brexit, Tynwald members have been assured.

LibVan MHK for Ramsey, Lawrie Hooper, asked in a Tynwald question how many extra customs staff will be required in the event of the UK pulling out of the EU without a deal - how many will be in place by October 31.

In a written reply, Treasury Minister Alfred Cannan replied: ’It is currently anticipated that an additional two full-time members of staff are required.

’The recruitment process for these positions has been completed and the additional members of staff should be in place by October 31.’

Mr Hooper also asked Chief Minister Howard Quayle to make a statement on contingency planning in relation to food supply in the event of the UK leaving the EU without a deal.

Mr Quayle replied that the government was not expecting food shortages.

He explained: ’The UK Government has stated it expects there will be an adequate supply of food in the UK in the event that the UK leaves the EU without a deal.

’It has suggested, however, that there may be delays at key channel crossings of Dover and via Eurotunnel.

’This reduction in the flow of goods at these ports may, therefore, result in changes in the types of food we will see in our shops and supermarkets, and will be likely to impact the availability of fresh fruit and vegetables.’

Mr Quayle said contingency planning has been underway since the beginning of 2019 and the Brexit team in the Cabinet Office has been working closely with UK government departments to ensure all risks are mitigated as far as possible.

He said: ’To date, the evidence suggests that stores in the Isle of Man will be in the same position as those in cities and towns in the UK.’