A NORTH-EAST business group has abandoned its neutral position to call for Britain to remain in the EU.

The Entrepreneurs’ Forum says the country’s economy will be stronger inside the organisation.

Officials say the switch comes after a board meeting, which considered polling of its membership, and a conference vote.

But John Elliott, founder of family-run Newton Aycliffe manufacturer Ebac, which is embarking on a venture to become the only UK-based washer maker, says the group is wrong, arguing Britain will be able to secure new trade opportunities outside the EU.

The Enterpreneurs’ Forum says data shows North-East entrepreneurs are swinging towards a remain vote, with 72 per cent of those who attended its conference voting to stay in the EU.

Only 17 per cent expressed a wish to leave.

Nigel Mills, chairman, said: “Having consulted our members and held a debate, we are advocating entrepreneurs and business people vote to remain.

“There is a very positive economic and business case for Britain to remain in the EU.

“Our membership has allowed us to not only outperform other EU nations, but other major global economies, such as Japan.

“Entrepreneurs are risk takers, so there has been some speculation we are more likely to back a leave vote than other members of the business community.

“But we take calculated risks.

“We know the risks involved in leaving the EU but any benefits remain to be seen.”

However, Mr Elliott said a Brexit would remove Brussels-induced restraints and improve trade opportunities.

He added: “If we leave, we will be opening up to a new era of global trade, after so many years shackled to Brussels.

“If we remain, we will not only be subject to the red tape that has damaged our economy up to now, but also a whole new set of directives the European Commission has been holding back until after the vote.

“I reject fear-based tactics to get us to vote for remaining; they talk down Britain when they should be championing it.

“My advice to anyone who wants to keep jobs in the UK, and especially in the North-East where we need them most, is to vote British.”