LONDON — Engine maker Rolls-Royce said Tuesday it was still committed to Britain after the shock European Union exit vote, but that the long-term impact would depend on future relations with the rest of the world.
Britons voted on June 23 in favor of quitting the EU following a bitterly-fought referendum campaign, sending shockwaves through world financial markets.
“Although this is not the outcome the company would have chosen, Rolls-Royce remains committed to the United Kingdom,” read a statement from the firm that employs more than 23,000 staff in Britain. “The UK’s decision will have no immediate impact on our day-to-day business.
“The medium- and long-term effect will depend upon the relationships that are established between the UK, the EU and the rest of the world over the coming years.”
The British company, which makes engine systems for aircraft and sea vessels, also confirmed its financial targets for 2016.
Rolls-Royce CEO Warren East had written to employees in June, during the referendum campaign, to stress the importance of staying in the EU bloc.
He had also warned that the London-listed company could put crucial investment decisions on hold in the event of an EU exit.
Copyright Agence France-Presse, 2016
