THE Northern Echo’s EU Referendum debate next month is shaping up to be a key event for businesses interested in the region’s future relationship with Europe.

The Echo and Hewitts Solicitors, one of the region’s largest legal firms, will be co-hosting the keynote In/Out debate for business at CPI's National Biologics Centre in Darlington, on Wednesday, June 15.

The event, which runs from 9.00am to 10.30am, will include key speakers from the official In/Out campaign groups – Britain Stronger in Europe and the Vote Leave Campaign. It will be an opportunity for business leaders to hear both sides of the debate and sift the facts before they vote on June 23.

The seminar will give the two sides a the opportunity to sway key decision-makers and opinion formers.

Members of the audience will be asked to give an indication on how they plan to vote before the debate starts and again afterwards – to see if the speakers have managed to influence their opinion.

Both sides will have 15 minutes to put forward their arguments, before the debate is opened up for questions.

Brenda Davidson, managing partner at Hewitts, said: “The referendum will see Britain finally settle the question of whether we want to be part of the EU or go it alone.

“Whatever the decision, the referendum will have profound consequences for the British economy, not least in terms of how we do business with our European neighbours.”

With most polls saying the outcome is too close to call many businessmen and women are still to make their minds up.

“The Hewitts/Northern Echo debate will give North-East business leaders a unique opportunity to hear both arguments and to ask the questions that are important to them,” said Ms Davidson.

Businesses who are interested in joining the debate should register at https://eureferendumbusinessdebate.eventbrite.co.uk