An advisory group is set to be formed to help deal with the impact of Brexit.

Councillors discussed forming the group at a Dorset County Council People and Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.

It comes after a report was put before the committee discussing how the council can prepare for Brexit.

The report highlighted the immediate issues facing Dorset, including risks to businesses, the council’s influence on policy making and concerns of employees who are non-UK EU citizens.

It stated: “The uncertainty concerning rights of non-UK citizens post-Brexit and the relative weakness of Sterling have added to the longstanding challenges to recruitment and retention of suitable staff.”

Speaking at the meeting, Matthew Piles, Service Director for Economy at DCC, said: “We are aware of the immediate issues. We are already in conversation with many bodies both within Dorset and nationally.

"What we have set out is where we can influence discussions because Dorset is unique and we want to make sure that it is recognised.

He said: “Local businesses are asking us for guidance on where to get information. As we go through this process they will want someone to talk to so we can sign post them to the right people.

The report also highlighted areas where the council may have less influence including consumer policy, trading standards, agricultural policy and waste.

David Walsh, Economic Lead at DCC, said: “The EU law on consumer policies is likely to be dealt with at national level and our ability to influence that is limited. However, there are other areas, for example, environmental protection legislation and industrial policy and future funding streams, where we could have more influence, either through local authority or local enterprise partnership working in partnership.

"We are working with government bodies and partners on an industrial strategy to inform and remind them that Dorset is here and to ensure that they are aware of the challenges we face which arise from Brexit.”