While there may be a reduction in the choice of fresh food post Brexit, there will still be sufficient supplies, according to the government.

Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture Geoffrey Boot was asked by Lawrie Hooper (Lib Vannin, Ramsey): ’What specific contingency plans are in place in relation to the supply of food in the event of the UK leaving the EU without a deal, including what specific actions his government has undertaken in planning for this eventuality.’

Mr Boot said that the government has a ’limited role’ in the supply chain.

He added: ’We have been working closely and productively with the major suppliers of food on the island. And I commend the work they have done to assess and address possible risk.

’They have been working to ensure their supply chains are resilient, that they have their own internal contingency plans in place, and that these are ready to be activated should the need arise.

’The degree of assurance which has been given by local retailers is high.

’Their view is that Isle of Man stores will be in the same position as stores in the UK, and that although there may be a reduction in choice in respect of mostly fresh food, the overall amount of food will be sufficient.’

The UK government’s assessment is that there will not be an overall shortage of food but consumer choice may be impacted for a time.

This will, in the main, affect fresh produce.

Mr Boot also said that a Council of Ministers paper that was discussed in March ’contains information provided by retailers on a confidential basis’.

He added: ’The Isle of Man Government relies on maintaining good relations with retailers and so this cannot, therefore, be published on that basis.’