Business leaders join Cable in Brexit warning

Ahead of Philip Hammond’s Spring Statement today, business leaders have signed a joint statement with Leader of the Liberal Democrats Vince Cable warning that the UK faces more uncertainty if Brexit proceeds.   Twenty business people, from a range of backgrounds, agree “Any investment which is ‘pent up’ will remain so if Brexit proceeds, during a period of protracted and acrimonious further negotiation.   “The Chancellor is labouring in an absurd delusion by suggesting the economy will receive any Brexit Boost. Instead, there will be a heavy price to pay for business and for citizens.    “The Government’s Withdrawal Agreement leaves a panoply of crucial questions about the future trading relationship of the EU unanswered.   “The certainty which businesses crave can only be secured by a People’s Vote and a decision to stay in the European Union, as a leading player setting the rules rather than merely following them.   Leader of the Liberal Democrats Vince Cable added:  "It is quite clear that business isn’t fooled by the idea that ‘getting on’ with Brexit would provide certainty.   “The only really certain outcome would be to give the public a choice between the friendless Withdrawal Agreement and remaining in the EU.   “Overwhelmingly – whether in public or in private – business would prefer to stay as a full members of the EU.  If the public chooses to do so in a People’s Vote, there would be a significant economic boost.   “Contrary to all the government tries to allege, Brexit with a deal or without will cause the economy to contract.  Brexit means a poorer country, and a less welcoming home for business investment.”