Business figures call for vote on Brexit terms

More than 70 business figures are calling for a public vote on the final terms of Britain's exit from the European Union, warning that the country faces “either a blindfold or a destructive hard Brexit”, the Sunday Times reported.

Firms are increasingly worried about the prospect of Britain leaving the world's biggest trading bloc in March without an agreement, or that politicians will sign up to a deal that limits companies' access to the continent's markets.

A new group called “Business for a People's Vote”, which includes Justin King, former boss of the Sainsbury's supermarket chain, and John Neill, head of the car parts supplier Unipart, is to be launched as campaigners raise the pressure on politicians.

London and Brussels hope to conclude a deal this month, but in a letter, the business figures warn of potential negative consequences.