The majority of small builders will vote in the EU referendum based on their personal beliefs rather than business interests, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

In a recent poll, over 80% of construction SME bosses will base their remain or leave decision "on their broader personal beliefs".

In addition, the study showed:

• Builders rank the UK Government's ability to freely legislate in a way that specifically meets the needs of British business as the biggest benefit of Brexit.

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• Most support from builders for remaining within the EU stems from continued economic stability membership would be likely to provide.

• More than half of small construction business owners do not feel well informed when it comes to issues that might affect their businesses when it comes to the EU referendum.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said the outcome of the vote will have "significant ramifications" for small construction firms regardless of the outcome.

"That's why it's fascinating that more than 80% of our members have indicated that their vote will be determined by their personal beliefs ahead of anything else," he said.

"It just goes to show that although it's important to explore the business case for leaving or remaining within the EU, for many people their decision will be based first and foremost on other drivers. These could include the desire to be part of the wider European community or a compulsion to reclaim British national sovereignty."

(LM)