CPHC Chair’s Statement from 4th July 2016
The most significant event to happen in the last month has been the Referendum on UK membership of the European Union. While the result was somewhat unexpected, the impact has not been. There is currently great uncertainty for the future of the economy and of UK Computer Science. This uncertainty begins with it still being unclear whether we will indeed withdraw from the Union. While the Leave campaign was successful, there have been discussions as to if and when Article 50 should be invoked. All Conservative Party candidates for Prime Minister have stated their respect for the referendum, and that there will be no second referendum, but according to legal experts, Parliament will need legislation to repeal the European Communities Act 1972. Whether the vote will be successful is to be seen, and there are strong thoughts that it is likely that there will either be a different referendum, or an election, to ensure there is a mandate for action. CPHC has already highlighted the potential impact of withdrawal, and remains committed to ensuring that we influence decision-making on withdrawal. In addition to the statement we have already released we will explore composing articles or undertaking primary research.