Aston Martin CEO calls for Brexit clarity within six months
The car maker wants an indication on possible tariff rules
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Aston Martin wants some clarity on the UK government’s Brexit negotiations within six months as the luxury sports-car maker seeks to avoid trade tariffs.
The car manufacturer, whose cars feature in James Bond films, also wants an indication of how the industry will recruit skilled labour after the UK exits the European Union, chief executive Andy Palmer said in an interview with Bloomberg Television in Singapore.
“We understand there has to be a period of discussions,” Mr Palmer said. “I wouldn’t like that period of discussions to go more than six months without starting to get some inkling about where it’s going to go.”
Gaydon-based Aston Martin said last month it returned to profit and nearly doubled revenue in the second quarter amid robust demand for the new DB11 sports car.
Mr Palmer’s looking for certainty amid speculation Aston Martin is considering an initial public offering. He said in the interview an IPO is one possible scenario but private-equity shareholders would determine the timing.
Asked whether a listing next year might be too ambitious, Mr Palmer said: “I would have thought so.”
Bloomberg
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments