CBI urge UK government to avoid no-deal Brexit

The Confederation of British Industry urged the UK government to try to reach an agreement with the European Union on trade post-Brexit to avoid further economic challenges.

Over three quarters of the business leaders that were surveyed by the CBI want a deal between both sides and only 4% of company bosses from a survey of 648 said they supported a no deal Brexit.

Businesses are currently struggling to deal with the effects of the pandemic which has also caused delays in the preparations for the end of the Brexit transition period in December this year.

Carolyn Fairbairn, CBI director general, said: “Next week Brexit talks enter the 11th hour. Now must be the time for political leadership and the spirit of compromise to shine through on both sides. A deal can and must be made.

“Businesses face a hat-trick of unprecedented challenges – rebuilding from the first wave of Covid-19, dealing with the resurgence of the virus, and preparing for significant changes to the UK’s trading relationship with the EU.

“A good deal will provide the strongest possible foundation as countries build back from the pandemic. It would keep UK firms competitive by minimising red tape and extra costs, freeing much needed time and resources to overcome the difficult times ahead.”