THE LIBERAL Democrat metro mayor candidate has spoken out over the signing of the document that signals Britain’s departure from the EU.

Former Bristol MP Stephen Williams, who joined Lib Dems from across the region to march with tens of thousands of people in London to show their support for the union, said that “history shows that Britain is better when it is part of a united Europe.”

The letter, confirming the triggering of Article 50, withdrawing Britain from the European Union after two years of negotiations was signed yesterday by Prime Minister Theresa May.

Mr Williams said: “The Liberal Democrats have always believed that Britain should be outward facing, collaborating with other countries to tackle global challenges, our membership of the European Union allows us to do that.

“By working with our European neighbours we have created the world’s largest free trade area, we have delivered peace and we gave the British people the opportunity to live, work and travel freely. History shows that Britain is better when it is part of a united Europe.

“In Parliament the Lib Dems have been fighting to guarantee EU citizens’ the Right to Stay and guarantee a meaningful vote on the final Brexit deal.”

He added that Bristol and Bath, two of the areas included in the new West of England Combined Authority (WECA) voted in favour of remaining in the union.

South Gloucestershire meanwhile voted marginally in favour of leaving the EU.

He said: “The West of England’s prosperity has been underpinned by membership of the EU’s Single Market and Customs Union. I worked with others to secure a strong Remain vote in the area during the referendum.

“As West of England Mayor I will defend the rights of the tens of thousands of EU nationals who live and work in the region. Their contribution is essential to many of our key industries, our universities and our public services.

“The road ahead is unclear. No country has ever left the European Union before and the rules for exit – contained in Article 50 – are brief. But on May 4, residents do have a clear choice.”