A Norwich MP has told Parliament that the city needs to get a good deal as the UK starts the process of leaving the European Union.

Norwich North MP Chloe Smith, who supported the Remain case in last month's referendum, said her constituency includes parts of Norwich, which voted Remain, and Broadland, which voted Leave.

She told MPs: 'Norwich is the largest general insurance centre in the UK and home to well-known brands including Aviva (formerly Norwich Union), Marsh, Virgin Money, Royal Bank of Scotland, Central Trust Capital and Swiss Re.

'That's a heritage going back more than 200 years, and going strong today employing thousands of people.

'We also enjoy an ambitious science sector, with world-leading research at the Norwich Research Park; a thriving cultural scene, with much cross-border collaboration; and a strong tourism industry.

'I want a deal on leaving the EU that supports these sectors. I also expect long-deserved investment from the domestic government, such as into our forthcoming next rail franchise, which will support these sectors.'

She said that leaving the EU 'means to leave the existing arrangements for free movement'.

Talking about the views she has heard from constituents, she said: 'It's not a simple maths job to know how most of my constituents voted on this particular issue.

'Before the poll, most constituents that got in touch wanted to persuade me to vote out.

'After the poll, I am hearing most from people wanting to persuade me to vote against going out. This does reminds us that there really is a silent majority that never gets in touch with their MP.

'Counting all those people together who've been in touch on either side of this debate still numbers only a few hundred out of the 67,000 I represent.'

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