Business welcomes European Council decision on Brexit – companies need certainty

Today, the European Council confirmed that sufficient progress has been made pertaining to phase one of the Brexit negotiations. This will allow to start negotiations on the transition and the framework for the future EU-UK relation.

Emma Marcegaglia, President of BusinessEurope, commented: “Today’s decision is a positive step but we are far from the final deal. Companies are under time pressure as they need to plan ahead. We must step up negotiations. We urge negotiators to make additional efforts as we enter phase two discussions.”

Business needs certainty and a level playing field that allows trade and investment to remain stable. The worst case, a no-deal, cliff-edge Brexit, must be avoided. It would have severe economic consequences and would negatively affect companies’ business activities in the EU27 and in the UK. The months ahead will be critical and we count on strong political will on both sides to find the best solution for business and citizens.