REUTERS
The bosses of about half of Britain's 100 biggest companies are to sign a letter backing David Cameron in his fight to keep the country in the EU in the referendum in June that will shape the future of the UK, The Financial Times reported.
As Tory opposition to UK prime minister's strategy mounted, Downing Street rallied the backing of corporate leaders at companies including Shell, BAE Systems, BT and Rio Tinto, who will argue in the letter that Britain is "stronger, safer and better off" in a reformed EU, according to the report.
As Cameron tried to defend the EU deal that he secured in Brussels, Downing Street officials were trying to finalize one of the biggest ever pro-European shows of strength by the business community, as reported.
A draft letter being circulated to business leaders said that: "Following the prime minister's renegotiation we believe that Britain is better off staying in a reformed EU."
The letter, to be published on Tuesday, was said to have the support of about 50 chairmen and chief executives of FTSE 100 companies. Most would sign on behalf of their companies, others in a personal capacity. The letter was also expected to be signed by the bosses of smaller companies.
Some consumer-facing companies, including Tesco and J Sainsbury, did not want to be involved in the letter, amid fears that it could antagonise customers, although Virgin and HSBC were expected to sign.