The British auto industry has agreed overwhelmingly that Britain should stay in the EU, believing that access to the huge single market is vital to their success.
A survey by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) found 92% of car companies said the EU was best for their business. Nearly 70% said that leaving would damage their company in the medium to long term.
Key benefits were listed as funding for R&D, free movement of labour, integrated European supply chains, and the ability to influence harmonised regulations and product standards.
Reform was also called for, but respondents said the best way to make changes was from within.
The industry is worth £60bn to the UK, accounting for 4% of its GDP. It has played an important part in the UK’s economic recovery. Last year it built more than 1.5 million cars, more than in 2007 before the financial meltdown.
It has long been one of the most vocal supporters of EU membership.
