Automotive industry responds to PM’s Brexit speech

Not long after Theresa May gave her headline Brexit speech, various automotive industry representatives spoke out about their perspective on the ongoing issue:

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “The recognition by the Prime Minister of the importance of single market arrangements for the automotive sector is critical. We need government to deliver a deal which includes participation in the customs union to help safeguard EU trade, trade that is tariff-free and avoids the non-tariff and regulatory barriers that would jeopardise investment, growth and consumer choice. Achieving this will not be easy and we must, at all costs, avoid a cliff-edge and reversion to WTO tariffs, which would threaten the viability of the industry.”

For its part the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), added: “It is positive to see that the Government has revealed further details regarding its Brexit strategy which will allow businesses to start planning their future. During this transition period it is vital that the UK economy remains stable and businesses are given certainty”, said Sue Robinson, director of the NFDA, which represents franchised car and commercial vehicle retailers across the UK.”