BUSINESSES across the region are responding to the news that the United Kingdom will soon leave the European Union.

With the prospect of the country having to deal with operating outside the single market, multinational businesses based in the region have begun to remark on the uncertain times ahead.

In a statement released by the Airbus Group today, the senior management, said: “We respect the decision taken by the British people, which should be seen as a wake-up call for Europe and as a catalyst for change. 

“We will work constructively with the UK Government to minimise any impact on our operations.  While we are disappointed, clearly we will continue to support our workforce and operate our UK facilities."

The aerospace firm, which employs around 4,000 people in Filton, added: "We will study the longer term consequences of this decision on the competitive environment.”

A statement issued by the board of directors at Wotton-under-Edge firm Renishaw to its 2,700 employees said that it 'remained confident' in its future prospects.

They said: "We previously communicated our position that we believed that remaining in the European Union would be the best scenario for Renishaw, but the British electorate has made its decision regarding Brexit and as an organisation we fully respect this decision.

"Despite last night’s vote the UK is still today a member of the EU and will remain so for at least the next two years whilst a withdrawal agreement is negotiated.

"During this period we will continue to trade with our EU-based customers and subsidiaries as previously, whilst preparing our business to be able to trade efficiently after the UK has formally left the EU.

"Renishaw is a strong global business and whilst we believe that due to Brexit we will most likely face higher costs and additional regulation, we remain confident of our prospects for the future."