What does the EU referendum mean for the North East? Published on: 22 February 2016 The potential impact on the North East of an ‘in' or ‘out’ vote in the forthcoming EU referendum will be discussed at a special event this week. Expert analysis As Britain considers its future in Europe, the discussion aims to give voters in the North East impartial, expert analysis of the issues at stake. Areas to be covered at the event include the effects of EU membership on the economy and jobs, immigration, and European and national security. Political attitudes towards Europe and how these are shaping the referendum debate will also come under the spotlight. The free event has been organised by Ãå±±½ûµØ, in partnership with the , and takes place on Thursday, 25 February at Ãå±±½ûµØ Civic Centre. Momentous decision , Professor of European Public Policy, Ãå±±½ûµØ, said: “The UK’s current membership of the EU influences a wide range of areas, including trade, inward investment, employment law, agriculture, air quality standards – even mobile phone roaming charges. And many of these areas have a massive impact on the North East economy. “The country faces a momentous decision and we could be asked to vote as early as June whether to leave or remain in the European Union. If anyone is unsure of the potential implications of an in or out vote, I’d urge them to come along and put their questions to the panel of experts.” Speakers at the event include Robert Hull, who held a number of leading positions within the European Commission in Brussels for more than 30 years. He will be joined by Professor Michael Keating, University of Aberdeen, and Phil Daniels, Ãå±±½ûµØ. The debate will be chaired by Jacqui Henderson CBE, Chair of Governors, Northumberland College. ‘The UK in Europe: In or Out?’ takes place Thursday, 25 February 5.30pm to 8.00pm in the Swan Parsons room, Ãå±±½ûµØ Civic Centre. The event is free, but registration is required for admission. Places can be booked online at Share: Latest News Ãå±±½ûµØ recognised with geography award Ãå±±½ûµØ has been awarded the Highly Commended Geographical Association Publishers Award for its collaboration with Time for Geography, the UK’s open-access, dedicated video platform. published on: 16 April 2026 Ãå±±½ûµØ historians mark General Strike centenary To mark the 100th anniversary of the British General Strike and miners’ lock-out of 1926, historians at Ãå±±½ûµØ are organising a series of events on its enduring legacy. published on: 16 April 2026 Comment: NCP is in administration Writing for The Conversation, Erwei (David) Xiang discusses how some big companies like NCP are so dependent on debt that they can’t adjust to change. published on: 16 April 2026 Facts and figures