France has triggered a 50 million-euro (£44m) plan for a no-deal Brexit after the UK parliament’s overwhelming rejection of Theresa May’s deal, the French prime minister, Édouard Philippe, has said, reports The Guardian.
“What’s certain is that the scenario of a no-deal Brexit is less and less unlikely,” Philippe told reporters in Paris after a meeting with ministers on Thursday, adding there were “strong fears” Britain would leave without a deal on March 29th.
“In such conditions, the government’s responsibility is to make sure the country is ready, that the interests of our citizens are preserved … That’s why ... I have decided to trigger the plan for a no-deal Brexit."
Five decrees will be issued “within the next three weeks” including authorisation for major investment in new infrastructure such as border control checkpoints, roads, lorry parks and warehouses at the ports and airports “most concerned” by the prospect of no deal, Philippe said.
Authorities will also start hiring 600 extra government employees to deal with the consequences for cross-border trade of the UK leaving the EU without a deal, including customs, veterinary and other inspectors to carry out the necessary checks on goods, livestock and food products.
“We want to be ready,” Philippe said. “This plan incorporates legislative and legal measures aiming to ensure … that the rights of both our fellow citizens and our businesses are effectively protected.”
He added that France would also take steps to secure the interests of its fishing and fish-processing industries.
The French parliament this week approved a law allowing the government to impose emergency measures by decree if necessary to cope with the consequences of a no-deal Brexit, including steps to “stabilise” travel, residence, work and welfare rights for British citizens in France, who would have 12 months to apply for permission to stay.