This week, we hosted debates on the EU referendum for businesses in Ipswich and Chelmsford and discovered that the majority of attendees currently support remaining in the EU.

Of the 87 people who voted at the events, 42% indicated they would vote to remain while just 8% were considering a vote to leave the EU. Interestingly, with just one week to go until the polls open, 26% of the audience were still undecided.

In Ipswich, the debate was delivered by Ben Gummer MP for ‘remain’ and MEP David Campbell Bannerman supporting Brexit. Meanwhile in Chelmsford, former conservative MEP and current member of the House of Lords, Lord Balfe debated for remain and Bernard Jenkin, MP for Harwich and North Essex, argued for the leave campaign.

The debate covered a number of issues, with economic prosperity considered the most important factor behind the decision.

Despite MP Ben Gummer stating the upcoming referendum was the “most important decision we will make in our political life”, one third of attendees still felt they did not have sufficient information to make a decision.

Matthew Cole, Partner at Prettys and speaker at the event said, “With just one week to go until voting opens for the EU referendum, it is fascinating to see what is driving the decision and how many people are still undecided. There is still a lot uncertainty about how a vote to leave could impact UK workers which may be behind the high proportion of people still considering which way to cast their vote.”

Comments from the debates:

Ben Gummer MP stated that Matthew Cole gave ”an excellent presentation

Other feedback about the event included:

Informative and balanced debate” Paul Sullivan, Area Director, Lloyds.

Excellent speakers, informative” Philip Douglas, P Douglas Finance Ltd.

Exceeded my expectations – first time, not sure what to expect, but I was impressed.” Michaela Lamb, Tax Director, Carter Backer Winter LLP

Attendees at Prettys Business Academy cast their vote on the EU referendum

Attendees at Prettys Business Academy cast their vote on the EU referendum


Prettys’ Business Academy is part of a programme of events, seminars and legal updates that run throughout the year. For more information about Prettys Business Academy visit: http://www.prettys.co.uk/business-academy