A new survey by The Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders shows over ninety percent of UK automotive manufacturers wish for Britain to remain in the European Union.
Companies questioned as part of the report cited access to the single market as being fundamental to the UK automotive sector’s success, with 92 percent in favour of remaining in the EU.
The UK automotive sector has been a vocal advocate of the country remaining part of the EU, with 70 percent concerned that a withdrawal would damage their medium to long term futures.
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With Prime Minister David Cameron promising a referendum on the subject by 2017, the SMMT has called for reforms to the existing state of the 28-member block.
SMMT CEO Mike Hawes believes many regulations are too complex and likely to undermine international competitiveness for the sector.
“The position of the UK automotive industry is clear — being part of a strong Europe is critical for future success,” he said.
“The recent success of the UK automotive sector is due to its global competitiveness; competitiveness that is enhanced by a supportive business environment at home and access to the huge single market,” he added.
The SMMT survey states the main benefits of EU membership as also being integrated supply chains, the free movement of labour and harmonising influence over technical regulations across the region.
The British car industry enjoyed a renaissance in 2013, hitting a six-year production high due to strong domestic demand and exports outside the European Union.
