Ryanair backs UK remaining in EU

Ryanair has declared it is on the “remain” side of the Brexit debate, saying the UK needs to lead reform from within the European Union.

The low-cost airline announced its position on Wednesday, saying if the UK stays in it will lead to more jobs and better economic growth in Great Britain.

It also argued that EU open skies has transformed UK tourism and job creation prospects, while the free movement of goods and services has made the UK one of Europe’s most competitive and best performing economies.

While Ryanair said the EU needs reform, it believed the UK was best placed to lead this from within.

Chief executive Michael O’Leary said the UK economy and its future growth prospects are stronger as a member of the European Union than they are outside of it.

“Leaving Europe won’t save the UK money or red tape because like Norway the UK will still have to contribute to Europe, and obey its rules if it wants to continue to trade freely with Europe.”

It followed bosses at more than a third of Britain’s biggest businesses announcing on Tuesday they’re backing the campaign to remain in the European Union.

Asda, BT, Marks & Spencer, Kingfisher and Vodafone chiefs supported a letter warning of the risks to the economy of exiting the bloc.

London Mayor Boris Johnson accused the business leaders of "supporting alarm and anxiety" by signing the letter.