Brexit could send cost of Commonwealth Games soaring

The top concerns of Games organisers surrounding the impact of Brexit have been revealed. They include potential difficulties bringing in foreign workers, disruption to supply chains and reduced levels of policing.

Uncertainties around the economic climate post-Brexit are causing real concerns for the organising committee which has a strict timetable for getting venues ready and other arrangements in place.

The Birmingham Games is currently due to cost £778 million. Huge amounts will be spent on revamping and building venues, including the new aquatics centre in Smethwick, which will host swimming and diving events, and the Alexander Stadium in Perry Barr.

And there are fears the tumbling value of the pound as a result of the EU exit could send costs soaring.

Newly-released documents assessing the risks posed to the Birmingham Games by Brexit says it could "negatively affect Games deliverables" and that there could be "potential workforce attrition and cost inflation". They count this risk as the highest possible - 20 out of 20.

Changes to customs arrangements could cause disruption for international and domestic suppliers, the report from the Birmingham Organising Committee for the 2022 Commonwealth Games said.

There could also be problems for amassing the Commonwealth Games workforce, including security and cleaning staff, if EU workers can no longer be hired without a visa.

Meanwhile, the possibility an increase in crime and civil disorder could see police resources diverted away from the Games has also been discussed.

Elsewhere, organisers raise fears that post-Brexit, public support for the games "will diminish" as other priorities take precedence and "Games messages are lost or fail to cut through as Brexit dominates media and social media, potentially impacting on licensing, sponsorship and ticket sales revenues".

Adrian Bailey, a Labour MP in Sandwell, which will host part of the Games, said the potential soaring cost was an "unforeseen consequence" of voting to leave the EU.

The MP for West Bromwich West said: "The report demonstrates the unforeseen consequences of this decision. So many other projects will end up costing the taxpayer a lot more than they would have as a result of the decision to come out of Europe."

Nick Machnik-Foster, a campaigner for the region's Liberal Democrats, said: "It is utterly shocking that the Government's headlong dash towards Brexit could impact on the Commonwealth Games.

"Everything from the costs spiralling, visas for the athletes, and the legacy are all threatened."