Member Article

Brexit Minister concludes ‘hugely valuable’ North East visit

Minister for Exiting the EU, Steve Baker, has left the North East today after concluding his two-day fact-finding mission in the region.

Mr Baker was in the region as part of the government’s mandate to ‘secure an ambitious Brexit deal that works for every region of the UK’.

Speaking to business leaders and organisation representatives,, the Minister’s trip took in a range of sectors across the region, from energy and construction to life sciences and fishing.

He visited Hartlepool Power Station and the Port of Tyne, met with the North East LEP and the North East Chamber of Commerce.

Mr Baker said: “As we move towards exit day, we’re absolutely committed to listening to the views of businesses and people from across the UK.

“In the North East over the past few days, I have talked to a variety of different businesses from a range of sectors and heard all about their priorities and preparations for exit.

“The insight and understanding that they have is hugely valuable as we proceed through the negotiations to secure a deal that works for the whole of the UK.”

Jonathan Walker, head of policy and campaigns, North East England Chamber of Commerce, added: “This meeting was a good opportunity to speak directly to one of the Ministers implementing Brexit.

“Many businesses have concerns about what the future will hold when we leave the EU, so meetings like this are beneficial. We will continue to make sure that our business messages are heard during the negotiations.”