Brexit and Brent

Brent's next full Council has a paper on the impact of Brexit on Brent which could be substantial.  This is not least because Brent has the second highest number of EU citizens in London (22%) In terms of the electorate registered it ranges from about 10% in Kenton to a whopping 23% of Alperton.  Issues that the paper refers include:

• The effect of potential new customs barriers on imports and exports.
• The effect of barriers to labour movement on public services, especially the NHS.  Apparently around 10% of Council employees are originally from the EU.
• A possible fall in house prices, affecting the viability of regeneration projects.
• Possible changes to funding as economic growth will be more restricted.
• Changes in the law following Brexit.

Whereas the impact on the Council payroll seems limited, some of the contractors have very high levels of EU employees.  For instance, Veolia has more than half its employees as EU nationals, and agency staff are about 70% EU.  The construction industry in Brent is quoted as about 27% EU.  Funding for schools is decided on pupil rolls and these may go down if the EU population leaves. 

Over time there may be delays in accessing certain goods, e.g. medicines, which are certified later outside the EU then in it and may be affected by border controls.  The paper also refers to possible food shortages, assuring us that this will be dealt with by central government.  Given the government's manifest incompetence, I can't say I find that reassuring.  I hope that the current Brexit Secretary at least realises that we live on an island.

So far, that is all well known.

There is also a reference that "It has been reported in the press that voting rights will be extendedfor EU citizens living in the UK allowing them to vote in general elections and referendums as well." (3.48).  If that is true, it could easily help change the result in any future referendum. 
 
As far as I can see, the report lists absolutely no advantages to Brent in leaving the European Union.