THE employers' organisation the CBI is calling on businesses to be “flexible” to allow workers vote in the EU referendum on Thursday.

The CBI strongly supports the 'Remain' campaign, arguing that leaving the EU could inflict serious damage on the economy.

Director general Carolyn Fairbairn said: “The referendum will be the biggest decision that most of us will get to vote on in our lifetimes.

“The decision on whether we choose to stay in the EU will have serious implications for our economy, jobs and the opportunities for young people in the years ahead and it’s important everyone has their say.

“Only by having a clear result, where everyone’s voice has been heard will we be able to build stability and move on after the vote, whatever the outcome.”

She added: “Firms have an important role to play: where possible, they should do what they can to help their staff have the time to cast their vote.

“That might mean showing greater flexibility on when they expect employees to arrive at work and leave for the day, or perhaps see how shift patterns can be adjusted as a one-off.”