MERIDEN MP, Caroline Spelman has said Britain’s choice to leave the EU raises concerns over the future of young people and the long term stability of the economy.
Ms Spelman, who had publicly backed the Remain campaign, said she accepted the outcome of the vote and urged the country to unify and become a ‘builder of bridges, not barriers’ in the aftermath of the Brexit vote.
In an official post-referendum statement, Ms Spelman said: “Last Thursday, millions of people from across the United Kingdom voted in the EU referendum.
“The result was a clear majority of people expressing a desire to see Britain leave the European Union.
“Firstly, I would like to thank everyone who engaged with this debate and took to the polls on Thursday to cast their ballot in favour of the Leave, or Remain campaigns.
“It troubles me that 25% of the electorate did not vote.
“Although I personally campaigned for Britain to remain in the European Union, I accept the democratic outcome of the vote on EU Membership and would like to assure residents that I will work hard to ensure that our region and the United Kingdom continues to thrive.”
Speaking on how the country must move forward from the decision, the long-serving MP said a time of reflection was necessary before talks begin with other European leaders and a timetable is established for Britain’s departure from the EU.
Ms Spelman also said it was important to stabilise the financial markets in the wake of Brexit, after the value of the pound plummeted to its lowest in more than 30 years.
She added: “Whatever our views during the referendum campaign we must also come together with common purpose and, out of this result, build a generous and forward looking country, which can flourish as a strong global contributor – a builder of bridges, not barriers.
“The referendum campaign has, at times, been fractious and emotions within our country are running high.
“I would therefore appeal to everyone who took part in this ballot to act with consideration for others.
“Amongst the many voters who cast their ballot in support of the Remain campaign, there is genuine concern for the future of our young people and the long term stability of our economy.
“Similarly, on the Leave side, there are legitimate concerns about levels of immigration and the sovereignty of our Parliament – all of which will need to be addressed in the near future.”
