UK chemical industry reacts to Brexit decision

London – The UK’s Chemical Industries Association (CIA) has reacted to the vote by Britain to leave the European Union, saying it would “do everything to help members through any period of uncertainty.”

In a nationwide referendum on 23 June, the UK voted to exit the EU, leading to the resignation of prime minister David Cameron.

“It is not the decision that our sector wanted, but we fully respect the wish of the people for change,” said Steve Elliott, CIA chief executive.

Elliot noted that while business craved certainty, it was also used to operating in challenging and changing circumstances.

“We now have to look to the future and I am confident that an important and resilient industry such as ours can prosper in this new situation,” he added.

The industry official also called on the UK government to “work hard on securing the best exit plan for the UK and then establishing the new trading arrangements.”

After the vote, the UK must now begin two years of exit negotiations with the European Parliament.