A TOTAL of £35,000 in government funding to help prepare for a no-deal Brexit has been slammed as a “drop in the ocean”.

Cllr Miles Parkinson told members of Hyndburn Council’s resources overview and scrutiny committee the funding would not cover any serious implications that could be caused by Britain leaving the EU without a deal.

He added district councils had all been given £35,000 over the next two years while county councils got about £170,000 from government.

Unitary authorities like Blackburn with Darwen Council were handed £210,000 to help plan.

“We can’t plan because we are in an unknown position,” Cllr Parkinson said.

“If there are serious consequences, this will simply not cover it.

“£35,000 is a drop in the ocean and the major concern is for the business community if the economy goes backwards.

“Central government has given this money simply so they can say councils can plan for Brexit.

“Everyone is trying to predict what’s going to happen but we can’t do something in 24 hours – it takes time to plan properly.”

Cllr Tim O’Kane added “This time last year we heard that the cost of Brexit would be millions for this council but five weeks before the deadline we don’t even know what’s happening.

“How are we supposed to make any plans with £35,000?”

Announcing the funding, local government minister James Brokenshire said: “Local government will play a critical role in making a success of Brexit at the local level.

“My department is committed to ensuring councils have the support and the funding they need to prepare for an orderly exit from the EU and do appropriate contingency planning.

“I am retaining £10million for allocation during 2019/20 to respond to specific local costs that may only become evident in the months after we exit the EU.

“Finally, £5m will be split between teams in my department and the local government sector for specific purposes such as strengthening resilience preparations and supporting communities.

“This funding will help councils adapt to changes caused by Brexit, while still protecting vital local services.

“This will not be the only resources councils receive to fund Brexit costs.

“Government has been clear that departments will assess and, if appropriate, fund any potential new burdens."