Liberal Democrat politicians in Preston call on city council to join fight against no deal Brexit

They want to see Preston residents from the EU provided with advice and support around their status, should it not be possible to avert such an exit from the European Union.

Councillors from the party, who believe Britain is better off in the EU, are tabling a motion to members of Preston City Council at a meeting on Thursday.

They also want the local Government body write to the city’s three sitting MPs, as well as the Prime Minister.

Lib Dem coun Tony Raisbeck, who represents Greyfriars Ward, said: “Brexit is and will be the biggest issue affecting this country and this city for years and years to come.

“During the referendum no one was calling for a no deal Brexit because everyone knew it would be terrible for the country.

“As councillors we need to protect our residents and a no deal Brexit will hurt the people in Preston.”

He added: “Like lots of people across the country I was a Labour supporter but Brexit changed everything and only the LibDems were saying what needed to be said.

“Three years later the LibDems are still the strongest Remain party.”

The motion coming before council members states: “The catastrophic consequences for the city of Preston of the UK exiting the EU without an agreement and a ‘no deal Brexit’ will not only affect the council’s ability to provide services, but will also affect Preston’s local economy and the wellbeing and prosperity of residents, both EU and UK citizens, living in the city.

“That cultural diversity is integral to our community and our way of life. European citizens help sustain our public services and make an enormous contribution to the civic, economic and cultural life of our city.”