BUSINESSES still do not have enough information about 24 critical issues related to Brexit barely three weeks before it takes full effect.

That is the claim by business groups including Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said it lacked sufficient information on 24 of the 35 questions most frequently raised by business.

The issues apply in “deal” and “no deal” scenarios and cover fundamental issues such as customs checks and rules of origin.

The BCC released the list yesterday with 24 days to go until the end of the transition period covering Britain’s departure from the European Union.

Dorset Chamber’s chief executive, Ian Girling, said: “The lack of information presents significant challenges for businesses in Dorset trying to prepare for the EU transition.

“None of the issues businesses are grappling with are new. They have all been raised repeatedly over the past four years, from tariff codes and rules of origin through to the movement of goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland.

“The BCC, supported by the Dorset Chamber and business communities nationwide, has long campaigned for greater clarity and it is incredibly frustrating that we have reached this point.

“Irrespective of whether a trade deal is reached or not, businesses require clear, detailed and actionable information to prepare for the end of the transition period.

“With the clock ticking down, the government must do everything in its power to provide businesses with answers as they prepare to navigate a new year like no other.”

He said free support was available via the Dorset Gateway service and the chamber’s international team could provide advice and guidance.

BCC director general Adam Marshall said: “With just weeks to go, businesses need answers, and they need them now. Posters and television adverts are no substitute for the clear, detailed and actionable information businesses require to prepare for the end of transition.

“We welcome the fact that UK and EU leaders are still talking, as the overwhelming majority of businesses want the two sides to reach an agreement. If a breakthrough happens over the coming hours and days, the two sides must immediately set to work on pragmatic steps to smooth the introduction of the new arrangements from January, including easements for genuine administrative errors, clear procedures at ports, and fast help from customs authorities.”

A government spokesperson said significant preparations were being made, including investing £705million in jobs, technology and infrastructure at the border and £84m in grants to the customs intermediaries sector.

She added: “This is alongside implementing border controls in stages so traders have more time to prepare.

“We’re intensifying our engagement with businesses through the Brexit business taskforce and running a major public information campaign so they know what they need to do to get ready.”