City bosses: It’s time to get behind Brexit deal
SOME of Britain’s most powerful business leaders have urged Parliament to vote through Boris Johnson’s new Brexit deal amid a frantic lobbying effort to get it over the line.
Barclays Bank, insurer Prudential and defence firm BAE Systems are among a string of heavyweights to back the Prime Minister as he seeks the support of MPS in a knife-edge vote.
Others giving their support to Mr Johnson include blue-chip drinks firm Diageo; billionaire trading entrepreneur Michael Spencer; top law firm Linklaters; and Lord Rose, the former boss of Marks & Spencer who previously chaired the Remain campaign before the referendum.
Responding to a letter they were sent from Mr Johnson to whip up backing for his agreement with Brussels, the bosses urged an end to years of delay and confusion over Britain’s departure from the European Union.
The list of names is likely to delight Downing Street as it piles pressure on wavering politicians, particularly because many interventions are from companies which have so far sought to stay out of the Brexit debate.
Theresa May, the former prime minister, long hoped for similar expressions of support, but struggled to get businesses on the record amid widespread doubt her deal would ever pass.
Mr Johnson’s success in persuading bosses to back him suggests there is growing hope in the City that his proposals could command a majority today in Parliament.
Sir Roger Carr, chairman of BAE Systems and former president of the Confederation of British Industry, said: “You can’t please all of the people all of the time – and that’s certainly true of a Brexit negotiation.
“There is no doubt, however, that the achievements of the Prime Minister in securing an agreement against all odds has gone some way to bridging the gap.
“Whilst leaving is simply the start of a long journey, staying in a continuous loop of renegotiation offers neither the much-needed clarity nor certainty that business requires.”
Paul Manduca, chairman of Prudential, said: “This is the first step away from the cliff edge and so deserves everyone’s support.
“We understand that there is a long battle for a trade deal and to work out our future relationship but this is the start. We are hoping MPS see common sense in the vote.”
Bosses’ comments suggest they increasingly believe the uncertainty caused by repeated delays to Brexit is more damaging than leaving with a deal would be. Jes Staley, chief executive of Barclays, said: “The Brexit deal breakthrough is a very welcome development after a prolonged period of uncertainty. There are ratification hurdles remaining but further certainty, at this stage, would be very welcome.”