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Speaking ahead of a visit to the North East, TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady has warned that a no-deal Brexit would be ‘devastating’ for working people in the region.

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.”

Editors note
  • Treasury analysis showing the number of North East jobs linked to EU trade is available here.
  • The government impact assessment also predicted that the North East’s economy would suffer a 16% hit in the event of no-deal.
  • The Trades Union Congress (TUC) exists to make the working world a better place for everyone. We bring together more than 5.5 million working people who make up our 49 member unions. We support unions to grow and thrive, and we stand up for everyone who works for a living.
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