Hundreds of tech start-ups and entrepreneurs have signed an open letter opposing Britain’s potential exit from the European Union.
The letter, published in the Financial Times, was signed by representatives from Deliveroo, Innocent and Zoopla, as well as Tech City chief Eileen Burbidge and Twitter board member Martha Lane Fox.
It warned of a potentially catastrophic effect on the tech sector should the public vote to leave the EU when they go to the polls on June 23.
“Of course the EU isn’t perfect; but rather than cutting ourselves off from the opportunities it offers, it is better to be on the inside helping shape the rules of this market instead of just being subject to them,” the letter read.
“The economic shock of a vote to leave the EU would also be hugely damaging to our businesses.
“Leaving could lead to lost investment, missed opportunities and lost jobs.
“The UK is currently the best place in Europe to launch and grow a business; leaving the EU will undoubtedly undermine the ability of Britain’s entrepreneurs to start-up, innovate, and grow.
“It is simply not worth the risk.”
Research has shown the tech sector to be overwhelmingly in favour of staying in the EU.
Conservative MP Matt Warman this week urged tech firms to be more vocal in their opposition to a potential Brexit.
The MP for Boston and Skegness said it was important that they make their views clear to the public.
“The tech community is very, very strong in the opinion [that technology] is global,” he said.
“If you guys believe this stuff, get out there and say it. It’s a hard task for politicians because we are often not the most trusted people in the room.”
There have been several warnings from the US that the “special relationship” with Britain would have to be revised, should voters opt out of the EU.
Join BusinessCloud’s debate on the pros and cons for business of both staying in and leaving the European Union in Birkenhead on May 12th.