Stewart Dunn, Hampshire Chamber Chief Executive, said: “Hampshire’s voting broadly reflects the national picture. Some of our members, who have long harboured legitimate concerns about Brussels power and red tape, will be happy. Among them will be owners of many small and medium-sized businesses. We understand the frustrations they have had and we hope the future is more benign. For those who voted to remain however, including no doubt those many Hampshire exporters who trade across the EU and have been putting off investment decisions, the referendum result is a painful blow. Hampshire has very strong links to Europe through its geographic proximity, two major sea ports and regional airport. Growth strategies in a number of our sectors, including engineering, aerospace and marine, are certainly going to be affected but the full extent is unclear.
“What the business community needs now is a clear plan to stabilise markets and support the economy during the coming transition period. Equally, the government needs to ensure there are free trade deals in place, with Europe and elsewhere, that really do deliver. As we have been throughout the referendum campaign, with our debates and roundtable events, we are neutral politically. At the same time, we will continue sharing essential information with our members on how decisions in Westminster affect Hampshire businesses.”
