The document, Operation Yellowhammer, which was leaked to The Times, has predicted shortages of some fresh foods in addition to price rises as a ‘likely scenario’ if the UK leaves without a withdrawal agreement on 31 October.
The supply chain will be disrupted, with elements such as ingredients, chemicals and packaging, in short supply. It is expected that in combination, the factors will not cause an overall food shortage but will reduce availability and choice in addition to price increases, affecting vulnerable groups.
It says that up to 85% of lorries using the main channel crossings ‘may not be ready’ for French customs and could face queues of up to two and half days.
A senior Whitehall source told the Sunday Times: “This is not Project Fear, this is the most realistic assessment of what the public face with no deal. These are likely, basic, reasonable scenarios – not the worst case.”