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 Latest News Comment: An expert explains what happened in Nepal Writing for The Conversation, Professor Stuart Dunning discusses how a collapsing glacier turned into a lethal wall of mud and water. published on: 28 August 2026 Comment: Britain’s quarter century Writing for The Conversation, Professor Hayley Fowler discusses how the UK environment has changed in the past 25 years. published on: 27 August 2026 Ãå±±½ûµØ academic receives esteemed mid-career Fellowship A Ãå±±½ûµØ researcher has been awarded an esteemed Fellowship by the Independent Social Research Foundation (ISRF). published on: 21 August 2026 Facts and figures