HAMPSHIRE business owners are calling for clarity after MPs have rejected Theresa May's Brexit deal.

Only 202 MPs supported the withdrawal deal that sets out the terms of Britain's exit from the EU, while 432 MPs voted against it.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has now tabled a vote of no confidence in the government, which could trigger a general election.

But Hampshire firms are now calling for clarity on the terms of trade they will face in the future, both in Europe and further afield.

Responding to tonight’s parliamentary vote, Ross McNally, executive chair of Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, said: "Sadly, uncertainty continues. Now the Prime Minister’s deal has been rejected, we need to start looking at all the options available to the UK to avoid a messy scenario. It is crucial that Westminster delivers an agreement that works for UK businesses.

“There is no appetite among the business community for a messy and disorderly Brexit – businesses are frustrated by the delays. The prospect of leaving the EU on March 29 without a deal leads to many businesses taking action – such as pausing on recruitment and investment, stockpiling goods, and opening new operations. This is not helpful if these prove unnecessary."

He said businesses spending money to try and anticipate "an unclear future" is "wasteful and a distraction".

"The business communities which the Chamber of Commerce represents have a diverse range of views on the relationship with the EU, but they do agree on the need to avoid a messy and disorderly Brexit. Getting clarity and precision is vital so firms can better plan for the future", Mr McNally said.

He added that businesses want the chapter of Brexit to come to a conclusion.

"The Government must act decisively on areas within their control, such as migration and customs procedures. Firms are in the dark on too many aspects of life after March 29. Neither government nor business is prepared for the consequences of no deal.

“Our priority at Hampshire Chamber is to continue working with our members and the wider business community to lobby for certainty so business investment and confidence can return or be maintained,”he said.

The motion tabled by Jeremy Corbyn is expected to be discuss tomorrow.