MPs slam 'lack of urgency' over Brexit in key government department
2 min read
A key government department has been slammed by MPs for failing to do enough to prepare for Brexit.
In a damning report, the Public Accounts Committee said they had "grave concerns" at the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy's approach to Britain quitting the EU in less than a year's time.
Worryingly, they said BEIS - which is responsible for around one-fifth of the work the Government needs to do to prepare for Brexit - had not even begun the procurement process for a dozen "essential" digital systems needed before March 30 next year.
And the committee said that while the department has recruited 90% of the staff it needs to carry out the work, many of them do not have "the required level of experience and expertise" for the task in hand.
Committee chair Meg Hillier said: "The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy appears to be operating in a parallel universe where urgency is an abstract concept with no bearing on the Brexit process.
"We have grave concerns about this apparent complacency, compounded by the lack of transparency on the department’s progress with what in some cases will be critical projects.
"Sensitivities around negotiations with the EU must not be used as an excuse to keep taxpayers and Parliament in the dark. We urge the Government to provide us with a swift update on the issues raised in our report."
Green MP Caroline Lucas said: "This damning report is an indictment of the Government’s handling of the whole Brexit process. Ministers have failed to re-order the priorities of this crucial department, and in doing so have shown a shocking disregard for the consequences of this potentially monumental change for our economy."
Lib Dem MP Layla Moran said: "This gigantic department was created by Theresa May to prepare our business and energy infrastructure for Brexit, so far all it has done is added to a sense of chaos surrounding the Government."
A spokesperson for BEIS said the department remained "focused on getting the best deal for the UK and ensuring a smooth transition for businesses, consumers and workers".
They added: "Since this report was written, BEIS has received £185m of extra funding to help deliver a successful Brexit by employing an increased number of staff on our Europe work, identifying the most pressing legislative challenges and remaining ahead of schedule by recruiting high-calibre staff to ensure we prepare thoroughly and effectively."
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