Businesses, including Deloitte and Westcoast Ltd, met with the minister at 3M in Bracknell at a roundtable event on Friday 16th August to discuss preparations. He told business leaders that the Government stands ready to support them in their preparations with 76 days to go until the UK leaves the European Union, advising companies to consult the British Business Bank and HMRC for finance support and tax advice.
Energy and Clean Growth Minister Kwasi Kwarteng said: “Some companies have already put plans in place to prepare for 31 October. But all businesses – large and small – must ramp up their efforts to get ready for Brexit.
“This Government stands beside the business community as we prepare to kick start a brighter future, with companies from Reading to Slough flying the flag for Britain.”
In the South East of England, outside of Greater London, Brexit is considered the most important issue facing Britain today by 58% of people surveyed by Ipsos MORI. While the Government is working determinedly to secure a new deal with the EU, the UK will be leaving on 31 October whatever the circumstances and the Government will shortly launch a major campaign to get the country ready for Brexit.