Local Lib Dems discuss EU and jobs at Shoreham Port

The damage to the Sussex economy if Britain leaves the EU was one of the top issues discussed in a meeting at Shoreham Port in West Sussex on Friday.

Giles Goodall, Liberal Democrat European candidate for South East England and Jemima Bland, Lib Dem parliamentary candidate for East Worthing & Shoreham met Rodney Lunn, Shoreham Port's chief executive. David Edey, chairman of Eastbrook Liberal Democrats, also joined the meeting.

Mr Lunn pointed out that 1,600 people work in the port and much of the port's trade is with Europe. It was important to maintain Britain's influence within the country's largest trading partner, he said.

On being in or out of the EU, Mr Lunn added: "If you're not around the table, you're on the menu."

Mr Goodall said: "Shoreham Port exemplifies the best of Britain as a trading nation. It seems crazy to risk damaging it by leaving Europe. Lib Dems are fighting for us to stay in the EU and to safeguard local jobs in Sussex and across the South East region."

Ms Bland said: "It was interesting to hear from someone who really knows just how much this area relies on trade with Europe for its prosperity. Leaving the EU would be a disaster for the Adur District."

Mr Edey said: "It was a pleasure to hear how Shoreham Port wants to engage constructively with local people on issues which concern them, such as traffic, noise and monitoring air quality."