The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has reacted to the result of the UK’s national referendum to leave the EU by stressing the need for tariff-free trade deals with Europe and other global markets. 

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “The British public has chosen a new future out of Europe. Government must now maintain economic stability and secure a deal with the EU which safeguards UK automotive interests. This includes securing tariff-free access to European and other global markets, ensuring we can recruit talent from the EU and the rest of the world and making the UK the most competitive place in Europe for automotive investment.”

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The SMMT said during the campaign that its members supported continued UK membership of the EU and the auto sector has warned that leaving the single market could adversely impact the competitiveness of UK manufacturing operations. Vehicle makers with operations in the UK will be hoping that tariff-free trade with the EU from the UK can be maintained.

See also:

What does ‘Brexit’ mean for the auto sector?

‘Business as usual,’ says Tata’s Jaguar Land Rover
 

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