A no-deal on Brexit is looking like the most likely option, if EU leaders maintain their current stance.

That’s the view of Chief Minister Howard Quayle as the political stalemate continues over Britain’s withdrawal from the European Union.

He said: ’No deal is a still a potential option. It’s not going away. Depending on whether the EU leaders stick to their word on the withdrawal agreement and say take it or leave it, then no deal is the most likely option.’

He said the Manx government was continuing its preparations for the worst-case scenario of a no-deal Brexit.

The Chief Minister said: ’The most important thing is to ensure that the Isle of Man is as well prepared as possible.

’Don’t under-estimate the amount of work that is going on behind the scenes.’

Mr Quayle pointed out that the island has been working closely with colleagues in the Department of Health and Social Care in the UK to ensure the supply of medicines continues as normal in the event of a no-deal Brexit.

The Isle of Man is treated as being part of the UK NHS supply chain for medicines and medical devices and so is included in all UK contingency planning in this area.

A Brexit Business Checklist has been produced by the Manx government which says it is offering support to businesses in sectors that could be affected.

Latest polls suggest that the pro-Remain Liberal Democrats would win a UK general election if it were held now.

The YouGov poll puts LibDems on 24%, closely followed by Nigel Farage’s new Brexit Party on 22%, with the ruling Conservative Party and opposition Labour Party relegated to a tied third place with 19% each. It shows how polarised the electorate remains, giving little hope for ending the impasse in parliament.