BSRIA has welcomed last week’s Government Brexit White Paper, which sets out 12 key principles and provides further details about the process.

The White Paper provides certainty and clarity as the negotiations are approached and protects existing workers’ rights. It says it will ensure free trade with European markets – forging a new strategic partnership with the EU, including a wide reaching, bold and ambitious tree trade agreement – seeking a mutually beneficial new customs agreement with the EU.

In addition, it says government will ensure the UK remains the best place for science and innovation, seeking continued close collaboration with the UK’s European partners.

It also says that a smooth, orderly exit from the EU will be delivered. A phased process of implementation will be sought, in which both the UK and the EU institutions and the remaining EU Member States prepare for the new arrangements that will exist between the UK and the EU.

BSRIA chief executive Julia Evans said: “BSRIA welcomes the additional facts included in this White Paper focusing on some of members’ and industry’s concerns. It is crucial that industry’s voice is heard loud and clear in the corridors of power – both in the UK and across Europe.”

She continued: “Industry faces skills and labour shortages, therefore, members and industry will welcome the particular reference that the White Paper makes to science and innovation and the UK being a country that looks to the future. Strength in science is the way forward, along with that of innovation – which will help achieve the ambition of industry. 

“In this respect, it is critical that industry has access to the skilled and semi-skilled workers it needs to succeed. To reiterate BSRIA’s position: what industry needs is clear leadership to bring economic confidence and stability, avoiding a disruptive cliff-edge.”