SMMT comments on Brexit vote

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has commented on last night's historic defeat for the government's proposed deal on leaving Europe.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said, 'The vote against the Brexit deal on the table brings us closer to the 'no deal' cliff edge that would be catastrophic for the automotive industry. All sides in parliament must work together to find a way forward and put the necessary mechanisms in place to prevent this happening and explore alternatives that protect our future.

'Leaving the EU, our biggest and most important trading partner, without a deal and without a transition period to cushion the blow would put this sector and jobs at immediate risk. 'No deal' must be avoided at all costs. Business needs certainty so we now need politicians to do everything to prevent irreversible damage to this vital sector.'