Yorkshire university heads back staying in EU

The heads of York St John, Huddersfield, Leeds, Sheffield and Hull universities have all put their names to the statement from the Britain Stronger In Europe campaign insisting the issue is “crystal clear”.

It says: “The impact of our universities on our local communities and economy should not be underestimated.

“Every year, universities generate over £73 billion for the UK economy – £3.7bn of which is generated by students from EU countries, while supporting nearly 380,000 jobs.

“Strong universities benefit the British people - creating employable graduates and cutting-edge research discoveries that improve lives.

“Our membership of the EU enhances this positive impact and makes our outstanding universities even stronger. Inside the EU, we are better able to work collaboratively on ground-breaking research in areas from cancer to climate change. EU membership supports British universities to attract the brightest and best minds from across Europe, enhancing university research and teaching and contributing to economic growth.”