THE official white paper on Brexit and the UK's future relationship with the EU has been welcomed by Worcester's MP.

Robin Walker said the paper - published by the Department for Exiting the EU (Dexeu), the department where he serves as a minister - gave "clarity and detail" for UK businesses.

He said: “I am pleased that today’s announcement gives further clarity and detail for UK businesses, in particular on how post-Brexit economic and regulatory arrangements will work for the UK.

“The white paper will help businesses such as those with complex supply chains like Mazak in my own constituency of Worcester, who trade both within the EU, and internationally.

“Furthermore, the white paper maintains the UK’s relations with our EU neighbours, secures jobs and investment, and helps us to establish our new relationship with the EU.”

The white paper includes plans relating to future trade and co-operation, and sets out how it will ensure no hard border in Northern Ireland.

Mr Walker added: “I do appreciate that many people voted remain as well as leave, and we need to respect the outcome of the referendum, but we must also bring people together.

"The best way of doing this is for the UK to exit the EU with a strong future partnership that allows us to trade freely with the EU, and co-operate closely in a number of areas."