British businesses and multinationals with UK divisions are moving to the Netherlands, many of them to Amsterdam, above

The Dutch government has lured 140 companies to the Netherlands since the Brexit referendum in 2016, The Times has learnt.

In a sign that British-based businesses are boosting their preparations for the UK’s future outside the single market and customs union, the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency said that 78 of those had made the move last year. They are expected to deliver 4,200 jobs to the country and €375 million in investment. The agency is in talks with 425 other businesses that are waiting for greater clarity on Brexit talks before committing to any move.

Sony and Panasonic, the Japanese technology companies, are moving their European bases to the Netherlands. Media companies, including Bloomberg and the Discovery channel, are moving some London-based staff to Amsterdam.