Airbus UK's Paul Kahn warns of dangers of UK leaving EU
Outlining the value of the EU to maintaining competitiveness and securing the right economic climate, Mr Kahn (right) made it clear that withdrawal from the Union would have a serious impact on Airbus’ future investment decisions in the UK.
Highlighting the growth potential for manufacturing and cyber particularly in Wales, Mr Kahn stated that for it to be realised “rather than wasted”, the UK’s economic conditions “must be able to compete for international investment. And the best way to guarantee this is by remaining part of the European Union.” Leaving the EU would he predicted, “reduce the attractiveness of the UK as a manufacturing base.”
Acknowledging that any withdrawal from Europe would not have an immediate impact on Airbus’ operations in the UK, Mr Kahn made the point that the eventual effects on areas such as skills would take a long time to repair in the event that the wrong decision was made.
In outlining the importance of long-term strategic thinking, Mr Kahn described the Aerospace Growth Partnership as a successful industrial strategy recognising it as key to creating UK competitiveness.
He also credited support from Government in the form of industrial strategy as enabling Airbus Group to invest heavily in the UK stating that the investment reflects both economic conditions as well as freedom of movement facilitated by EU membership.
Recognising that the European Union is not without flaws, Mr Kahn emphasised that this was an opportunity for the Government deliver positive reforms in creating a leaner and more efficient EU, highlighting that the Union has received significant benefit from Britain’s membership.
Mr Kahn’s comments were supported by a similar argument put forward by Sir Mike Rake, President of the CBI in a speech also made this week. As well as making the call for UK business to be more vocal in supporting Britain’s EU membership, Sir Mike made the point that there was not a credible alternative to the Union and leaving would leave the UK with little or no influence despite the obligation to comply with EU principles.
