IN OR OUT? NOTTINGHAM BUSINESSES TO DEBATE THE EU REFERENDUM
CRITICAL discussions surrounding the imminent EU referendum will be taking place next week (18 May) during a business-led event hosted by leading business groups Nottingham Means Business (NMB) and East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire).
The Nottingham-based breakfast event, sponsored by leading accountancy firm Page Kirk LLP and global property and construction consultancy Gleeds, aims to provide local professionals with insight into the upcoming referendum and how it will impact upon businesses and the UK.
A variety of perspectives will be explored throughout the event with speakers discussing why voters should leave or stay in the EU, aiming to help local professionals make informed decisions for the 23 June referendum. Gabe Winn of Britain Stronger in Europe will be presenting his case for remaining in the EU – while Dave Buik, supporter of Vote Leave, will explain why he believes the UK should exit.
Simon Gray, chief executive of NMB, said: “This upcoming referendum is nearly here and is a hugely important decision, which is why NMB, along with the Chamber, Page Kirk LLP and Gleeds want to host this event – helping local businesses to gain a better understanding of what their vote will mean.
“We are hoping to create an interactive forum sparking important discussions within the business community. We are delighted to have such a wide range of speakers who will debate both sides of the argument.”
The business perspective of the referendum will be explored by two local business owners, with Ian Baxter of Baxter Freight discussing why he believes we should stay in the EU and Nigel Baxter of RH Commercial Vehicles showing his support for leaving the EU.
John Wallis, a Partner at Page Kirk, said: “Whatever side of the fence you’re on, there’s no doubt that the forthcoming decision is one of the most important the country is likely to make. The implications of the EU Referendum for business could be enormous, so we feel the NNB and EMC event is an excellent initiative. Our message to clients and the wider business community is to come along and air your views.”
The event, which will be held at Nottingham Trent University conference centre, will also provide attendees with the opportunity to engage with panellists during a Q&A session.
Gleeds director, Anthony Cork, added: “We’re proud to be sponsoring The Big EU Business Debate and strongly believe in its purpose. The outcome of the EU Referendum will have a significant impact on local businesses and the economy, so it is important that everyone feels equipped to make an informed decision. We see this event as an excellent opportunity for Nottingham businesses to form their own opinions and make their vote count.”
Aspects likely to be tackled during the event are: the implications for employment law in the modern workplace, a potential reduction in burdensome red tape requirements, the UK’s representation within Europe, and fundamental reforms to the single market for the free movement of goods, people, services, and capital.
Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “The EU referendum is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for people to have their say on an issue that will have a profound impact on the UK.
“All voters who own or run a business and employ people will need to make their decision based on the trade and economic prospects of staying in, or leaving, the EU. This event is all about ensuring that they fully understand the nature of the UK’s relationship with the EU, the rights and obligations it has as a member state and the potential impact of leaving the EU, so they can make that informed choice.”
The breakfast will commence with refreshments at 7.30am and presentations will start at 8.00am with a Q&A session taking place at 9.00am. The event is scheduled to close at 10am.
The event, which is free to attend has limited spaces and can be booked online at: http://www.emc-dnl.co.uk/events/8717/the-big-eu-business-debate
For further information, please contact policy@emc-dnl.co.uk or telephone 01246 212 533.