GIMA’s director Vicky Nuttall says: "Following the announcement that the UK has chosen to leave the EU there is no doubt that we are now moving into a period of uncertainty both financially and politically.

"However, at GIMA it is very much business as usual. Until we learn more about the exit strategy that will be put in place to separate the UK from the rest of the EU, we can only speculate as to both the short and long-term implications for our members of this momentous decision.

"GIMA will be watching the situation carefully as events unfold. We remain dedicated to working on behalf of its members, and committed to doing all we can to ensure that our members cope successfully with any short or longer impact."