This week I was proud to support a motion at Devon County Council that sends a clear message: our county’s prosperity depends on strong trading relationships with Europe.
The motion, proposed by my colleague Councillor Abbott, set out the evidence of how Brexit has affected Devon’s economy. From our farmers struggling with trade barriers and labour shortages, to our world-class universities losing access to European research funding, to our high-tech industries finding it harder to recruit skilled workers and collaborate with European partners – the impacts are being felt right across the county.
I’m pleased to say the Council voted by a significant majority to take action.
We noted the evidence on Brexit’s economic impacts across trade, investment, productivity and labour supply in sectors vital to Devon. We agreed that the Leader of the Council should write to Government ministers, Devon MPs, the Local Government Association and the County Councils Network making the case for strong European trading relationships for our economy and communities.
We also committed to working in partnership with local authorities, businesses, universities and the Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority to strengthen our international economic ties, support inward investment and boost research collaboration. And we agreed to work with regional partners to understand and respond to ongoing economic and labour market challenges, supporting businesses to monitor trading conditions and make the case for change to Government.
This matters for people right here in Tiverton West. Our local agricultural businesses need access to European markets and workers. Our young people deserve the opportunity to study, work and travel freely. Our public services need the staff they desperately lack.
This isn’t about refighting old battles. It’s about recognising economic reality and doing what’s right for Devon. Businesses across our county – from farms to tech firms – need certainty and access to European markets to thrive.
I’m pleased that councillors from across the political spectrum recognised this. The vote demonstrates that when it comes to Devon’s economic future, pragmatism can win over ideology.
The Council has now committed to making the case strongly to Government. I’ll continue to push for closer European ties that benefit our local economy and communities.
If you’re a local business affected by trading conditions with Europe, or if you have views on this issue, I’d be glad to hear from you.