Responding to the CBI’s draft letter calling for a three year transition period, John Longworth, Co-Chairman of Leave Means Leave and former Director-General of the British Chambers of Commerce, commented:
“It comes as no surprise that the CBI – the Collaborators of Brussels Industry – is continuing to harbour their grudges borne from being on the wrong side of history.
“Sensible businesses across the country understand the result of the referendum, and are already making efforts to seize the benefits of Brexit. In particular, entrepreneurs and owners in the enterprise economy are capturing the moment with enthusiasm. Lingering in the departure lounge of the EU’s protectionist club fosters the worst type of uncertainty for business – we are leaving the EU, leaving the single market and leaving the customs union.
“In collaborating with businesses on the continent, the CBI is seeking to stymie the British Government’s efforts to secure the best Brexit deal for Britain.
“The CBI would serve the country better by preparing to seize the global opportunities of free markets and free trade that Brexit provides, rather than promoting the narrow self-interests of protectionist corporates, clinging onto the absurd notion of keeping Britain in the EU by the back door.
“No doubt the British people, who are overwhelmingly in favour of getting on and leaving, will be watching which chief executives sign the CBI letter, an unpatriotic contrast to their refusal to sign the letter supporting the Prime Minister. It is little wonder that the Government is straining to get a deal, given that they have the EU Commission in front of them and a fifth column behind them.”