More than a third of Bradford businesses believe that their companies would be damaged if the UK leaves the European Union in any future referendum.

An extensive survey of 2,500 businesses by Bradford East MP David Ward also revealed that 84 per cent believe staying in the EU would be in Britain’s best interests.

More than 36 per cent of respondents said quitting the EU would have a direct negative effect for their company, even forcing some to close.

Mr Ward said were concerned about the uncertainty surrounding Britain’s future EU membership and many believed that belonging to a major trading bloc attracted trade to the UK and locally.

The businesses surveyed ranged from the smallest one-man bands to those employing 250 people in the Liberal Democrat MP’s constituency.

They included firms in sectors such as retail, textiles, process and manufacturing and construction.

Mr Ward said: “It’s clear from the results that the UK’s membership of the EU is vital for jobs and businesses in Bradford.

“As this survey shows, the benefits of the UK being within the European Union are unquestionable.

“Around half our trade and nearly half of our foreign direct investment comes from other EU member states, 3.5 million UK jobs are linked to our trade with the EU and our membership of the EU brings an average net benefit of a whopping £3,000 for every household each year.

“The Liberal Democrats are the only main party that are firmly supporting Britain’s place in the EU.

“Our strong support for membership does not mean we think that the European Union is perfect – continued reform is necessary and we have already achieved reforms such as securing an historic cut to the EU budget. I will continue to co-ordinate and work with businesses and the local community in Bradford to make sure I bring about a stronger economy for my constituents.”

The survey also showed that more than 60 per cent of firms believe that Britain should focus on building further trade links with the EU and the European economic area.

Also, 71.3 per cent feel that the Regional Growth Fund, which gives grants to growing businesses to invest in key projects, will support their business; 88 per cent said the £2,000 cut in National Insurance contributions was helpful and 67 per cent said the £1,500 grant to help take on an apprentice will be beneficial for their business.

Mr Ward said Liberal Democrats within the coalition Government had influenced the introduction of these measures.

“The survey also shows that several measures the Liberal Democrats have implemented in Government to aid businesses have been extremely significant for Bradford businesses and have encouraged growth,” he said.