A HAMPSHIRE business leaders have joined the clamour for a Brexit deal to be reached to end uncertainty.

Hampshire Chamber of Commerce has echoed calls by the chamber network nationally for politicians to act now to avoid a messy and disorderly Brexit.

The threat of a no-deal outcome and lingering business uncertainty was a major focus of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) annual conference yesterday, including a headline speech by director general Adam Marshall.

Ross McNally, Hampshire Chamber executive chairman, and Maureen Frost, chief executive, were among the attendees at the QEII Centre in Westminster.

Both said they agreed with BCC that the political impasse needs to end as soon as possible so that businesses can return to everyday decisions on how best to grow.

Ross said: “For too long now, the debate around Brexit has created uncertainty that is in danger of choking off confidence and investment. This needs to stop now. Politicians must not shy away from the hard decisions that are needed to ensure a way forward that safeguards prosperity and jobs.”

He added: “The recurring theme today has been around long-term ambition and how, to achieve that, you need consultation, vision and leadership. That goes for political ambitions just as much as business investment in innovation, infrastructure and trade.”

Maureen said: “The conference was an ideal opportunity for business leaders from across the country to come together and discuss the challenges and opportunities we face.

"As Adam Marshall said, the current political impasse is having real-world consequences for businesses and must be addressed now. We are pleased to have represented Hampshire Chamber members in our many discussions today.”