The latest research from the UK’s largest job site, reed.co.uk, shows that more than two out of every three London employers favour of staying in the EU. What’s more, 62 percent think Brexit will put UK jobs at risk.
Of the 1,700+ employers surveyed nationwide, 61 percent will vote to remain in the EU when the UK goes to the polls on 23 June. Though London is leads the remain campaign – with 71 percent of the capital’s business leaders opposing Brexit – many other regions are also strongly opposed.
The percentage of UK employers (by region) most likely to vote in the June poll to remain in the EU are:
- London (71 percent)
- East of England (68 percent)
- East Midlands (63 percent)
- West Midlands (62.5 percent)
- Scotland (61.5 percent)
- South West (61.5 percent)
- North West (60 percent)
- North East (57 percent)
- South East (52 percent)
Overall over half of employers fear leaving Europe could put jobs at risk, while a further 55 percent believe Brexit will deter foreign investment in the UK. When asked if an EU exit would lead to more jobs for UK workers, 63 percent of respondents said no. For those in the remain camp, the economy (48 percent) and business and trade (41 percent) are the two biggest issues driving their decision for Britain to stay in the EU. On the other hand, for those voting to leave in the June poll, British sovereignty (51 percent) and immigration (32 percent) are the driving factors.
James Reed, chairman of reed.co.uk comments: “We surveyed over 1,700 employers and they are very clear; a strong majority said that we should remain in the EU. And it’s easy to understand why. More than half of UK employers think jobs would be at risk if the UK leaves the EU. And for many people, this is the harsh reality that could affect them most.”