An MP has been discussing the possible impact of Brexit with a local paper manufacturer.

Alex Sobel (Lab, Leeds North West) paid a visit to Weidmann Whiteley’s base at Pool Paper Mills, Pool-in-Wharfedale.

The Swiss-owned firm is an international paper supplier that employs 120 people.

Last year, it took on another five staff after winning a £2.5 million contract to supply North America, and now has plans to offer apprenticeships to local school leavers.

Mr Sobel dropped in to have a look at the company’s operation and afterwards praised its role as a local employer with strong community roots.

He fears, however, that Weidmann Whiteley could face future ‘complications’ in securing the right workforce and machinery post-Brexit.

After his tour of the company’s premises, The MP said: “Weidmann’s is a very important business for the constituency.

“It is supporting schools and industry in Pool and is one of the few industries in the area offering hands on experience for school leavers.

“It is a real shame that their international trade relationships could be at risk due to Brexit.

“Weidmann’s is a great example of a successful international business, and it would be devastating to the area if jobs and trade were effected in the paper-making industry when we exit the EU next year.”

The firm’s managing director John Briggs, however, is hopeful that its business will continue to flourish after the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union.

He said: “We are pleased that Alex was able to come look around the site and find out about our community work and our support for apprenticeships, as well as recent initiatives which have opened up new export markets.

“We have worked hard to become an established site in Pool and it is great that Alex has shown us his support for local businesses.

“We are hopeful that Brexit will not cause too many issues with our overseas suppliers and buyers and that Mr Sobel will continue to stand up for us in Parliament, and in the constituency, to maintain good relationships with the EU and our wider markets.”

The company works closely with local businesses but also relies on international trade for some of its specialist products.

Weidmann Whiteley is the only paper mill in the UK equipped to produce the specialised paper board that is used as insulation in high power electrical transformers and other industrial machinery.