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<p>We expect EU Exit to present both opportunities and challenges for regions across
the country. My Department is working closely with local government, key sector representatives
and with other Government Departments including Health, Education, Housing, Communities
and Local Government to consider potential national or local impacts, which may arise
from EU Exit, and the necessary preparations for a wide range of scenarios.</p><p>This
government has been clear that we do not want or expect a ‘no deal’ scenario. The
UK and the EU have agreed the terms of the UK’s smooth and orderly exit from the EU
in the form of the Withdrawal Agreement, and a detailed political declaration on the
terms of our future relationship. Nevertheless, the government will continue to do
the responsible thing and prepare for all eventualities. Extensive work to prepare
for a no deal scenario has been under way for over two years and we are taking necessary
steps to ensure the country continues to operate smoothly from the day we leave.</p><p>Since
the referendum, DExEU Ministers have made frequent visits to regions across the country,
including to the West Midlands, and are committed to continuing this productive engagement
with businesses and local government throughout the UK.</p><p>The Ministry for Housing,
Communities and Local Government are leading an extensive programme of engagement,
listening to the sector and gathering intelligence on council concerns and preparedness,
which has included discussions with Chief Executives from Coventry City Council, and
Solihull Council.</p><p>Senior policy officials have engaged with local authority
representatives from throughout the West Midlands, through various forums, including
a regional event in Birmingham on 13 December. Representatives from Coventry and the
West Midlands are also key contributors to the Ministry of Housing, Community and
Local Government’s EU Exit Advisory Panel.</p><p>This extensive programme of engagement
is replicated throughout England, enabling the Government to assess and support local
authority preparedness and to discuss and address the issues and opportunities of
EU Exit.</p><p /> <p> </p>
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