Enfield could be hit by fuel and medicine shortages if the UK leaves the European Union at the end of the month.

Both are flagged up as a ‘medium’ risk in a report outlining the challenges the borough could face after Brexit and the council’s preparations for disruption.

The report warns fuel shortages caused by panic buying or delays to supply could impact key services.

It adds that higher costs and supply problems could lead to a delay in access to medicines.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has repeatedly pledged to leave the EU on October 31 – despite MPs passing a law ordering him to request an extension to the Brexit deadline if a deal has not been reached.

If the UK exits without a withdrawal agreement, it would face tariffs on imports and customs checks at the border with the EU.

The report also reveals Brexit poses a high risk to the council’s finances at time when its budget is already squeezed following nearly a decade of funding cuts.

It warns £1 billion of pension investments made by the council could drop in value due to market movements – meaning the council may have to make extra contributions.

Higher prices and a greater demand for services could put extra strain on the council’s budget, leading to more borrowing.

The council has set up a dedicated Brexit Panel made up of councillors and other officials to respond to the impact of leaving the EU.

It says contingency planning has already reduced several risks and it will continue preparing for Brexit.

There is a low risk of civil unrest, staff shortages and disruption to adult social care, the report adds.

The Government has said it wants to reach an agreement with the EU but has ramped up preparations for a no-deal Brexit.

It has committed billions of pounds to a range of measures including stockpiling medicines and hiring extra border officials.

Enfield Council’s Brexit risk register, which will be discussed at the audit committee on Thursday (October 3), is available here.