Strong trade union values are vital for any future deal and we will call for a deal which reflects social issues and not just economic issues

Luc Triangle, General Secretary of industriAll Europe said:

“We welcome the announcement that official talks will begin on the transition period and the future relationship between the UK and the EU-27. The manufacturing industry is highly integrated across Europe and therefore we urgently need to agree on a future relationship that ensures that European industry, and in turn European jobs, are not negatively affected.

The EU has a proud industrial history, but it is greatly threatened by globalisation. A deal that disrupts inter-European supply chains and adds extra costs and time delays is not in the interest of European industry or its workers.

We cannot accept a race to the bottom in the UK with regards to social and environmental standards. IndustriAll Europe will be fighting alongside our members for a deal that respects workers’ rights as well as employment and environmental standards.

Strong trade union values are vital for any future deal and we will call for a deal which reflects social issues and not just economic issues.’’