The government has taken the extraordinary step to hire specialists to help the UK cope with any “civil emergencies” that could arise due to Britain leaving the EU.
In a move that will heighten anxieties around the uncertainty of Brexit, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) is offering up to £50,000 for each of the “resilience advisor” roles, with the job specification outlining they will “prepare for, respond to, and recover from civil emergencies of all types”.
It does not elaborate on , but mentions successful applicants would be expected to work with the emergency services.
When asked by HuffPost UK form these emergencies could take, MHCLG did not elaborate but a spokesperson said in a statement: ”It is in everyone’s interests to secure a good deal for both sides and we think that is by far and away the highest probability, but we have a duty to plan for the alternative.
“We continue to work closely with local areas, and meet representatives regularly. Government is doing the sensible thing and taking precautions as we plan for all scenarios.”
The three jobs are advertised as a nine-month secondment but could be made permanent, according to the listing.
The advert adds: “The posts would suit those who are keen to understand how government works and to be part of new and developing areas of resilience policy.”
Last month it was reported that British police forces have drawn contingency plans amid concerns a no-deal Brexit will lead to civil disorder if the country faces shortages of goods, food and medicine.
The plans include the “real possibility” of calling on military assistance and preventing officers taking leave around the date of the UK’s withdrawal in March 2019.
Speaking on the BBC’s Andrew Marr show last month, Home Secretary Sajid Javid said: “I’m glad the police and other experts are looking into this and thinking what might happen in a no-deal scenario.”
He added: “I don’t expect a no-deal outcome but we need to prepare for all contingencies.”
Asked if the UK could face civil disorder resulting in widespread unrest, Mr Javid said: “I think it is right that Government prepares for all possible outcomes.”