Following comments from both Airbus and aerospace industry group ADS, the Welsh Liberal Democrats have demanded the UK Government immediately rules out a no deal Brexit.
The party has called instead for the UK Government to commit to a deal that includes an effective transition period, provides certainty for businesses and ensures as close of a relationship with the EU as possible after Brexit.
In written evidence to the Commons Business Committee Airbus stated that failure to reach a deal would have “significant consequences” for the company, with new visa requirements affecting the “long-term competitiveness of UK sites.” The firm added that ‘if costs increase as a result of the UK leaving the EU, this will inevitably impact future UK investment decisions’.
Speaking to MPs on the Business Committee, Paul Everitt of ADS warned “No deal would be the worst possible outcome, from an industry point of view. We believe that would be chaotic, and unhelpful for this particular sector, and a number of others.”
Welsh Lib Dem Leader Jane Dodds commented: “The aerospace industry is one of Britain’s most successful high tech sectors and is of particularly importance to Wales, with Airbus’ 6,000 jobs in Broughton making a substantial contribution to the Welsh economy. The UK Government must immediately rule out leaving the EU without a deal and commit to a deal that supports firms like Airbus and protects the jobs they bring to Wales.
“By continuing to entertain the idea of a no deal Brexit the UK Government are showing just how out of touch they are with the devastating harm Brexit will do to hardworking families whose jobs are at risk if they continue to dismiss the warnings of firms like Airbus. Unfortunately the Government is more concerned with placating its most extreme backbenchers than listening to businesses, whilst the Labour party continue to abdicate their responsibilities by giving the Government a blank cheque on Brexit.
“Brexit will risk jobs and is already pushing up prices, it’s becoming increasingly clear that we need an exit from Brexit and that the people should be given a vote on the final deal.”
Stuart Robin Baker Vice Chair of Flintshire Liberal Democrats said: “As an employer of 6,000 people in Flintshire, Airbus’ warning must be taken seriously. It is essential the UK Government gets a Brexit deal that protects jobs at Broughton and ensures key businesses like Airbus can continue to flourish in Flintshire.”
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