Rolls-Royce backs UK staying in EU

The world famous car brand, which is part of the BMW group, has stated its commitment to the country but believes that Britain would be better off remaining an active and influential member of the EU, giving it a say when future European regulations are decided.

In a recent letter to staff seen by the Observer the chief executive officer of Rolls-Royce explained that the business benefited from easy movement of its employees between the UK and Europe, allowing it to build the skill level of its UK workforce, while any tariff trade barriers would mean higher costs and higher prices.

A spokesman for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars said: “As a significant employer, exporter and inward investor, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is committed to the UK, which is also the fourth largest global market for our parent company, BMW Group.

“Our experience shows that the free movement of components, finished products and skilled workers within the EU is extremely beneficial to British-based business.

“Therefore we believe that Britain would be better off if it remained an active and influential member of the EU, having a say when European regulations are decided, by which the UK will have to comply whether in or out of the EU.”

Nick Herbert, MP for the neighbouring Arundel and South Downs constituency and chairman of Conservatives for Reform in Europe, said the announcement was ‘highly significant’.

He added: “What this company is saying in their assessment a free trade deal in not necessarily going to happen. That’s a German company saying that.”