Secretary of State for Wales, Rt Hon Alun Cairns, will warn Welsh business leaders about the potential repercussions of a Brexit during his inaugural speech at a breakfast Q&A session at Swansea’s Liberty Stadium this week [Thursday 19 May 2016].
The South and Mid Wales Chamber of Commerce event will see the Welsh Secretary present his case for the UK remaining as part of the EU, and will urge businesses to think carefully about the way they vote.
Secretary of State for Wales, Rt Hon Alun Cairns, said: “The EU gives us access to a trading bloc of 500 million people – a unique market for our outstanding Welsh products.
“We can reform the EU while staying it. Let’s not take a leap into the dark but stay in Europe and ensure our voice and influence is heard.”
Liz Maher, president and chair of the South and Mid Wales Chamber of Commerce, said: “The result of the referendum will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the UK, hugely affecting day-to-day life.
“In a recent study conducted by our parent body, the British Chambers of Commerce, it was revealed that over half of businesspeople surveyed (54%) will vote for the UK to remain in the European Union, the majority of whom unlikely to change their vote before the referendum. It’s clear that business leaders know what they need to do to contribute to the long-term growth of Wales, but understanding how to achieve this with or without EU contribution is the question.
“Events such as these are therefore vital in helping businessmen and women come to an informed decision by listening to the views of political leaders. We encourage all business leaders to talk to their employees about the importance of their EU referendum vote, to ensure that the views of the public are made clear in the debate, and that Wales remains on course to becoming a prosperous and thriving nation.”