IN BUSINESS 61% vote to remain in EU in Chamber mock ballot

DOZENS of Halton businesses gave a ‘thumbs up’ to remaining in the European Union at a mock EU referendum debate hosted at this week’s 1st Tuesday business network event run by Halton Chamber Of Commerce And Enterprise.

Organised at the Hillcrest Hotel in Widnes, the borough’s businessmen and women heard presentations from both Lynn Pegler and Mark Butchard, explaining the facts behind the soundbites and how the Merseyside region has benefitted from European investment.

Arguments were presented on both sides of the debate and everyone was invited to join in a lively discussion about the merits of remaining and leaving the EU.

Entrepreneurs were then invited to take part in a mock secret ballot.

Of those taking part, 61% want to remain in the EU and 39% expressed a preference for leaving.

Some people said they were still undecided.

Paula Cain, Halton Chamber’s chief executive, said: “It was good to rise above the scaremongering and have the facts and statistics about EU membership explained in a clear concise overview.

“The mock referendum was a bit of fun and really just a snapshot of the opinion of some of our businesses but interesting as a taster for where the country may be heading in the real referendum on Thursday, June 23.”

The next 1st Tuesday breakfast network event takes place at The Heath Business Park in Runcorn on Tuesday, July 5 at 7.30am.

Tickets cost £6.50 for members and £15 for nonmembers and should be booked in advance.

Contact Nicola Holland on 0333 358 3480 or email Nicola. holland@ haltonchamber.co.uk

For more information visit www.haltonchamber. co.uk