On the impacts of no-deal, Frances said:
“If the government fails to deliver a decent Brexit deal, no one will be harder hit than working people in the North East.
“Tens of thousands of good jobs will be at risk, prices will go up even more, and the regional economy will take a massive 16% hit.
“A no-deal Brexit might not seem too bad to hedge fund managers and millionaire Tory MPs, but it would be devastating for working families in this region.”
On Brexit warnings from industry, Frances said:
“Manufacturing is the crown jewel of the North East’s economy. But we know key businesses in this region are losing confidence and that they’re getting ready to press play on their no-deal contingency plans.
“If manufacturers are shifting investment, putting off pay talks or even cutting jobs, then working people will pay the price.
“But with just months to go, the government still hasn’t provided any reassurance. Instead, Tory politicians are arguing among themselves, putting their own political interests ahead of the national interest.
“Britain is hurtling towards a cliff edge. The government must change course and deliver a deal that protects working people’s jobs and rights.”
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