Britain's exit could severely jolt EU, says bloc's trade commissioner

Washington

BRITAIN could severely jolt the European Union (EU) if it were to leave after a popular vote, the 28-nation bloc's trade chief said.

"If they choose to leave it would have tremendous effects," EU trade commissioner Cecilia Malmstroem said. "But we're not there yet."

So far, Thursday's UK election and its potential to trigger a popular vote on EU membership hasn't affected subjects such as a proposed trade deal with the US, Ms Malmstroem said on Tuesday in Washington, where she met with US Trade Representative Michael Froman, to discuss the Transatlantic Trade and Inves…