UK chemical industry sets the scene for post-Brexit future

London – Tariff free access to the single market, the ability to recruit talent worldwide, competitive and secure energy and a policy frame work encouraging science and leading to growth are key requirements of a Brexit deal, the UK Chemical Industries Association (CIA) said today.

CIA board member, Tony Bastock outlined the points at the CIA annual conference in London on 17 Nov. These points would give “clear signs that business will want to invest and grow UK operations."

“We want to ensure that we do all we can to continue to grow investment… our industry is responding to Brexit, taking the opportunities wherever possible – be it in Europe, North America or Asia, to maximise new opportunities," said Steve Elliot, CIA chief executive.

Also present at the conference Robin Walker, minister for exiting the European Union told the meeting: “The UK chemicals sector and its products underpin the UK economy, from supplying the automotive and aerospace sectors to pharmaceutical and agriculture.”

“That is why,” he continued, “ it is vital for the nation that we lay the foundations for the UK to continue to be a world leader in chemicals after we leave the EU.”