Confidence and decisiveness key in post-referendum landscape

The business community needs to pull together for a strong post-EU future said a gathering of leading Lancashire business figures.

The round table discussion, hosted by PM+M chartered accountants, explored the leave result and how it will affect business decisions and confidence, migrant workers, the regional skills base and how firms can work positively together for a strong future.

Andrew Graham said: “There is bound to be some sort of punishment for leaving the EU, it’s just a case of what it will be. It’s easier for the bigger industries to carry on as they were but not so much for SMEs.

Mike Damms said: “We weren’t that surprised by the result as there was a definite shift in views of taking control and long-term democracy. The question now is whether the period we are going through now is just turbulence or will it be a bigger rift?

Wayne Wild said: “I was hugely shocked at the result. I didn’t particularly want to vote out, but felt the deal we were getting from the EU meant I felt I had to. But there doesn’t seem to be a plan and that’s why there is so much turmoil.

David Gorton, senior partner at PM+M, said: “Business deal support is going to be hugely challenged and I can see a clear transition in the support we will provide. We need to make sure Lancashire businesses get suitably looked after and not just those in London.”

Jason Kent, managing director of Cobble which makes tufting machines for carpet manufacturers, said: “It’s essential that there is a clear structure put in place and there’s not just a knee-jerk reaction.

Oliver McCann, employment partner at Napthens Solicitors, said: “We’re now entering a period of uncertainty, of less confidence, and I don’t want fear to rule business decisions and take us in to another recession.

Sharon Harrison, relationship director at Barclays, said: “My concern is the backlash and people lobbying for another vote. The decision has been made and we have to make the most of the opportunity that has been presented to us.

Mike Berry, finance director at textiles business Panaz, said: “Running a business is about adapting to challenge and I’m up for that. It’s in our hands. The EU has been hard work so we should be pushing the boundaries elsewhere.”