Speaking as Chair of Cardiff’s Public Services Board (CPSB) Cllr Thomas, said: “As a result of the UK Government losing the vote on its deal to leave the European Union we now face a scenario whereby Britain could leave the EU on March 29^th with no deal.

“Leaving without a deal would be an economic disaster for Cardiff which is one of the most reliant cities in the UK on EU workersand EU trade.

“While the terms of Brexit will be determined at a national level, the impact of Brexit will be felt locally, by our communities and public services.  And so, while there is little clarity from the government in Westminster, we in Cardiff need to be geared up to respond.    

“That is why earlier today I met with Cardiff’s public services leadership including the NHS and the police to ensure that across the city we are working together to make sure we are prepared for any eventuality.

“As chair of the CPSB I will convene a Brexit Response Group which will meet regularly between now and the 29^th of March and, if necessary, over the months that follow. We already have well-established partnerships in place across the public sector and we will now work towards ensuring our city and its public services will continue to run smoothly irregardless of the Brexit outcome.

“To all the EU citizens who live, work or study in Cardiff, and particularly those of you who work in our public services as doctors, nurses, teachers or care workers, on behalf of the city’s leadership I want you to know that Cardiff remains an open, outward looking and international city.   Our welcome is what we stand for as a city and, irrespective of Brexit, you are, and always will be, welcome here in the capital city of Wales.”