A POLITICIAN has reassured businesses Harwich is prepared for Brexit, but says possible transport delays would be at the fault of the EU.

The Secretary for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Robert Jenrick MP, visited Harwich and the Harwich International Port to discuss planning and preparations made ahead of Brexit last Thursday.

He met with different businesses to assure them the port is well prepared for Brexit in “every eventuality”.

Mr Jenrick said: “Delays will purely be a result of the EU failing to match our offer and putting additional burdens upon goods, which are leaving the UK through the port.

“The Government has made a generous offer to the EU, that the goods coming to the UK will be able to do so with minimal additional checks.”

He said the Government is asking the EU to reciprocate the offer in the event of a no deal exit.

He said: “But specifically at Harwich, the port is confident goods being imported from the continent will be able to flow freely as a result of the measures we’ve put in place as a Government, working closely with the port.

“Where there could be an issue would be if the EU chooses not to reciprocate this and those goods that are leaving for the continent are delayed.

“But we’ve heard a very reassuring message that the port has additional capacity, they have good plans and they are working with the local council and police force to ensure goods can move as freely as possible.”

The Housing Secretary also believes Harwich will be a place of growth as the port has additional capacity for more goods, and said if there are delays in other ports, such as Dover, Harwich will gain from that and see more businesses coming in.

Mr Jenrick said: “We’ve also heard Harwich is interested in having a free port, which is an example of one of the potential benefits of our departure from the EU, where this area could benefit from more liberalised customs arrangements, fiscal incentives and all the onward investment that could come with that.”

Neil Stock, leader of Tendring Council, said: “In terms of Brexit, it was useful to discuss the extensive planning and preparations made by the port, partners and ourselves with the Secretary of State to see what he can do to help us maximise the opportunities afforded to us by leaving the EU – such as the potential for establishing a free port at Harwich.”

“While he was in Harwich we were also able to thank him for the Government’s support for big projects in Tendring, such as the £100 million Housing Infrastructure Fund bid to support garden communities, and also press him for further, much-needed investment – in particular for long overdue improvements to the A120 to Harwich, vital not only for EU exit preparations but also for the long-term success of our district.”