UK | 3,500 troops to be on standby if no-deal Brexit

British Defense Secretary said around 3,500 troops will be on standby in support of the government to help deal with any disruptions in the event of a “no-deal” Brexit.

Gavin Williamson says that while the military hasn’t had a formal request to help, “what we will do is have 3,500 service personnel held at readiness – including regulars and reserves – in order to support any government department on any contingencies they may need.”

The comments came as Britain’s Cabinet stepped up preparations for the possibility of a disorderly Brexit.

With 14 weeks to go before Britain’s departure from the bloc, it remains unclear whether the country will leave with a deal or crash out without one – an outcome that risks touching off gridlock at ports and shortages of goods.

The British government has decided to ramp up preparations for a “no-deal” Brexit, saying it must be ready for the possibility of that default option.

Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay says that while the government remains committed to Prime Minister Theresa May’s deal, it needs to be ready in the event it does not come to pass.

Following a Cabinet meeting, Barclay said preparations for a disorderly Brexit need to be “much more of a priority for businesses up and down the country.”

He says with just over 100 days until the March 29 official Brexit date, “a responsible government is preparing for the eventuality that we leave without a deal.” MDT/AP

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