Manufacturers divided on EU debate

A SURVEY of 900 UK manufacturing companies has revealed the industry is largely divided in its opinion about whether the UK should withdraw from the European Union.

The research, carried out by Leeds based specialist recruiter Manufacturing Futures, asked business leaders from a range of UK manufacturing companies whether they think manufacturers are better served by the UK remaining in the EU.

Of the 900 manufacturers surveyed, 55% said the UK should go it alone compared to 45% which think the UK is better off staying in the EU.  

However, 14% of respondents admitted that they could still be persuaded to change their mind about how to vote in the upcoming referendum.

Chris Griffin of Manufacturing Futures says: “Manufacturing is a key sector in the referendum debate because so many UK companies trade in the EU and rely on being able to export freely.  The UK still ranks as the 11th largest manufacturing nation in the world and, although many businesses have concerns, we are surprised the results of this poll are so close with the referendum fast approaching.  

“The number of people who could still change their minds could determine the outcome of the referendum.  The remaining campaigning, from both sides, will be crucial in deciding the UK’s future.”