CBI Director-General, Carolyn Fairbairn made the call in a lecture at the London School of Economics.
In her speech, Ms Fairbairn said the transitional arrangement would prevent Britain’s relationship with the EU from being left on a “cliff edge” and would provide a bridge of stability to a new deal.
ADS Chief Executive Paul Everitt backed the CBI’s proposal. He said: “Businesses are facing a period of uncertainty as the Government negotiates our new relationship with Europe. This uncertainty threatens the long-term investment that creates jobs and growth in every part of the country. Decisive action to minimise disruption and offer businesses a smooth, predictable transition would support continued investment in the years ahead.
“The political context in the UK and elsewhere in Europe has changed, and we now have a vital opportunity to refresh our approach. The Government needs to build a strong consensus on the priorities and options for a successful Brexit. These should include the UK’s continued participation in European research programmes, access to the skilled labour we need to compete, and frictionless trade without burdensome customs procedures or time-consuming checks.
“No deal is the worst outcome for the UK and Europe. Finding the best agreement will require compromise and pragmatic decisions by the UK and its European partners.”
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