THE North-East's leading academics have written an open letter highlighting what they believe are the benefits of remaining in the European Union.

The letter endorsed by the vice-chancellors of the region’s five universities says: “We would encourage everyone to vote regardless of which way they intend to vote, since this represents a decision of fundamental importance for the future of the UK.

“For us the health of higher education is a natural concern, and we believe that EU membership brings benefit to the world-leading excellence of the UK’s universities, including those in the region."

The letter adds: “The region’s universities have always been international, and they collaborate internationally.

“They are also major employers. In a recent poll, nearly 90 per cent of those working in UK higher education said they will vote to remain in the EU referendum.”

The signatories argue the UK’s membership of the EU supports the employment and career prospects their graduates, with study-abroad programmes helping them get better jobs.

The letter concludes: “EU membership also benefits the strength and dynamism of UK research and innovation, which drives prosperity and reputation.

For all these reasons we believe that remaining in the EU would be the better option for the North-East and for the wider United Kingdom.”

The letter is signed by: Shirley Atkinson, vice-chancellor and chief executive of the University of Sunderland; Professor Chris Brink, vice-chancellor of Newcastle University; Professor Stuart Corbridge, vice-chancellor and warden of Durham University; Professor Paul Croney, vice-chancellor and chief executive, Teesside University and Professor Andrew Wathey, vice-chancellor and chief executive of Northumbria University.