UK Business leaders call for guidance to help firms adapt after Brexit

People take photos of the national flag of the United Kingdom outside the European Parliament in Brussels, Belgium, on January 31, 2020. /Xinhua Photo

UK business leaders called on the government to provide timely guidance and support to help firms adapt while building a new relationship with the bloc, as Britain officially leaves the European Union (EU).

The UK's withdrawal agreement from the EU, effective on Friday night, ended the country's 47-year membership.

"In our business communities, this historic moment will bring a mixture of regret for some and celebration for others – but this is just the end of the beginning, not the beginning of the end," said Adam Marshall, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce.

Noting that decisions from the next phase of negotiations would influence the business environment for decades ahead, Marshall said the government must provide timely guidance and help firms adapt after Brexit.

A passenger prepares to take the "Eurostar" train from Brussels to London in Brussels, Belgium, on January 31, 2020. /Xinhua Photo

"The government must clearly communicate what those changes will be and provide timely guidance and support to help firms adapt and make the most of new opportunities as Britain sets its own trading polices," said Marshall, adding that the businesses are "desperate to avoid more of the cliff-edges" which have affected their operations in recent years.

Carolyn Fairbairn, director-general of the Confederation of British Industry, voiced her expectation to build a new future relationship with the EU.

"Today the UK leaves the EU, but our future prosperity remains connected... Now the real work begins. It's time to focus on the future and build a new relationship with Europe," said Fairbairn.

Meanwhile, Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, called on reaching an "ambitious" free trade agreement with Europe.

"Given the uncertainty the sector has experienced, it is essential we re-establish our global competitiveness and that starts with an ambitious free trade agreement with Europe, one that guarantees all automotive products can be bought and sold without tariffs or additional burdens," Hawes told reporters Thursday.

"Negotiations will be challenging but all sides stand to gain and this sector is up for it," added Hawes.

(With input from Xinhua)