On 23rd June 2016, over 30 million Brits took to the polling stations to decide whether the UK should leave or remain in the European Union. The result was announced the following morning, and with a 51.9% majority, the country opted to leave the EU after 43 years of economic and political partnership.
While London and Scotland voted strongly to stay in the EU, the Remain vote was undermined by poor results in the north of England. Speaking to national media, UKIP leader Nigel Farage called the result the UK’s “independence day”.
At the same time, the pound fell to its lowest level against the dollar since 1985 as the markets reacted to the results.
There is now a petition calling for a second EU Referendum, on the basis that one of the key referendum rules states that if the remain or leave vote was less than 60% based a turnout less than 75%, there should be another referendum.
The Rail Forum Midlands will continue to work with our members to understand any concerns you may have as a consequence of this decision as we navigate future developments together as a united rail industry.
As you will be aware, there are not anticipated to be any immediate changes to the way UK rail businesses operate, however, the longer term impacts of the decision to leave the EU will depend, in part, on the relationship that the UK seeks with the EU in the future. As the collective voice of the East Midland’s rail supply chain and beyond, we will endeavour to represent your views to Government during the forthcoming EU exit negotiations. To assist us in this we would be grateful if you can let us know of any thoughts or concerns you may have on this matter. As the immediate political landscape on this matter becomes clearer we will be organizing a networking event where these issues can be discussed.
The Rail Forum Midlands is saddened to see the resignation of Lilian Greenwood as Shadow Secretary of State for Transport. Lilian has been involved with the Rail Forum for a long time and we wish her well in her future at Westminster and offer our thanks for her support. Following Lilian’s decision to stand down we welcome the appointment of Andy McDonald MP to the role of Shadow Secretary of State for Transport. Andy worked closely with Lilian in his previous role as Shadow Rail Minister.
