A survey of CBI member organisations found that 77 per cent of construction firms felt remaining would be better for their business.

Overall, 80 per cent of CBI members said they believed the UK remaining a member of the EU would be best for their firm, with just 5 per cent backing the case for a Brexit.

The CBI said it would be making the economic case for Britain to remain in the EU after the results of the survey, which was carried out by ComRes.

The survey had 773 responses among small, medium and large firms. 

CBI president Paul Drechsler said: “The vast majority of our members tell us their businesses have gained from being in the EU.

”We have consulted every one of the CBI’s councils in the last three weeks, involving firms of all sizes and sectors across the UK. All councils agreed, many unanimously, that the CBI should make the economic case for remaining.

“The referendum is a matter for the British people and it’s clear that the public will base their decision on a range of factors. The business and economic case is only one part of the story, but it is a vital one.”

CBI director-general Carolyn Fairbairn said: “The message from our members is resounding: most want the UK to stay in the EU because it is better for their business, jobs and prosperity.

“Walking away makes little economic sense and risks throwing away the many benefits we gain from being part of the EU.”

Look out for our full analysis on the implications of Brexit for the industry on constructionnews.co.uk tomorrow