Hertfordshire County Council leader Cllr David Willliams has said that he shares concerns held by former business minister Richard Harrington about the possible impact of a ‘no-deal’ Brexit.

Watford MP Mr Harrington ;ast week resigned from his position as Business Minister, pointing to Brexit concerns.

In his letter of resignation Mr Harrington said the government’s approach to Brexit was “playing roulette” with the lives of those who are employed by or who depend on business for their livelihoods.

At a meeting of the county council on Tuesday (March 26) Cllr Williams was asked if he agreed with fellow Conservative Mr Harrington.

Cllr Williams told councillors: “In Richard’s decision last night in relation to the risks associated with a no-deal Brexit solution, he particularly – as a  business minister – highlights his concerns that that would have on industry and commerce. And I share those concerns.”

Cllr Williams was also asked whether the county council’s budgets had been adjusted to reflect the change in the UK’s proposed EU departure date.

He said that – given the changes in the timetable had only been determined  this week – it was premature to have an impact on the council’s budget.

He said the budget did contain a significant contingency element. And he said that if the extension of the process did result in more demands on council services he was confident it could be met through that contingency.