Press release: PM meeting with European Business Organisations

Today the Prime Minister chaired a meeting of leaders from UK and EU business organisations at Downing Street.

The Prime Minister reassured the group that Brexit meant the UK was leaving the EU, not Europe and reiterated her ambition for free and frictionless trade with the EU27 once the UK departs. She also expressed her commitment to giving businesses the certainty they need by agreeing a time-limited implementation period as soon as possible.

The Secretary of State for Exiting the EU David Davis gave an update on negotiations, highlighting the progress made on citizens’ rights.

Mr Davis said there was an important role for business leaders in the UK and the rest of the EU to play. He underlined that economic considerations should be to the fore in the negotiations.

Carolyn Fairbairn Director-General of the CBI, represented the wider group in welcoming the opportunity to hear from and discuss such key issues for industry with the Prime Minister. And Emma Marcegaglia, President for BusinessEurope stated that the business groups stand together, ready to play a constructive role in supporting governments find the solutions they need.

There was a consensus among the business groups for the need for an implementation period and for economic relations between the UK and EU27 to remain close.

The Business Secretary, Greg Clark and Economic Secretary, Stephen Barclay also attended the roundtable to hear the views from business leaders from across the EU.