Downing Street has approached some of Britain's biggest companies asking them to publicly support the government's approach to Brexit.
Executives have been asked to sign a joint letter declaring they wish to "make a success of Brexit" and welcome the government's commitment to negotiating a transition period to avoid a cliff-edge withdrawal from the EU.
But the approach was not welcomed by some of those approached, with one executive reportedly saying: "There is no way we could sign this given the current state of chaos surrounding the talks."
It is understood the letter, obtained by Sky News, was drafted by Number 10 and was due to be made public as Prime Minister Theresa May seeks to build a consensus around the withdrawal legislation going through parliament.
No date is yet thought to have been fixed for its publication.
The leaked text says signatories will include "leaders of some of the UK's most dynamic businesses operating in sectors as diverse as technology, financial services and advanced manufacturing", including supporters of both the Leave and Remain sides in last year's referendum.
"Fifteen months later, we all share an understanding that Brexit is happening, a commitment to ensure that we make a success of the outcome for the whole country, and a confidence that a global Britain has the potential to become one of the most productive economies of the 21st century," the text reads.
"This month the government's Repeal Bill will initiate a program of legislation that will make Britain ready for life outside the EU.
"We believe this is a good time for employers to work with government and parliament to make a success of Brexit and secure a bright future for our country."
The letter states that signatories welcome the government's commitment to negotiating an interim period after the formal date of Brexit in 2019 to give firms time to adapt to the changing relationship with the EU.
It says that businesses with existing trade links with countries such as the US, India, Japan and Mexico should "stand ready to use their expertise and networks to cement future relationships" as the UK seeks new partners outside the EU.
"As business leaders, we have a duty to our shareholders and employees to continue to grow our businesses and ensure that they remain strong," the letter says.
"As part of this we are also determined to see the UK continue to be a prosperous and united force for good in the world and are ready to play our full part to achieve this as Britain leaves the European Union."
Downing Street said it did not comment on leaked letters.
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