BREAKING: ‘Get out as soon as possible’ Jean-Claude Juncker gives Britain marching orders

THE European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker has given Britain its marching orders after the British people voted to leave the European Union.

Talking from Brussels after an emergency meeting with EU leaders, Mr Juncker told Britain the other 27 member states wanted to negotiate its exit plan “as soon as possible, however painful this process will be”.

After a shaky start to his speech as shockwaves reverberate around Brussels, the Eurocrat said: “Personally I am very sad about this decision but of course we have to respect it. 

"This is an unprecedented situation, but we are united in our response.” 

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and the EU chief executive met President of the European Council Donald Tusk and European Parliament President Martin Schulz in Brussels this morning. 

A joint statement issued by the EU leaders expressed “regret” over the UK’s decision, but said the British people’s decision would be respected and urged for negotiations to be launched “swiftly”.

French President François Hollande said Brexit was a “painful choice” which will “seriously test Europe”. 

The French leader has also said Paris wants the Britain to start its exit  package negotiations with the EU “as soon as possible”.

Mr Hollande said: “Today, history is knocking at our door. What is is unfolding is the dilution of Europe. I will do everything to ensure profound change rather than a step back.” 

German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed her “great regret” after Britain's historic decision and urged for "calm". 

The statement from the EU said: "In a free and democratic process, the British people have expressed their wish to leave the European Union. We regret this decision but respect it.

“This is an unprecedented situation but we are united in our response. We will stand strong and uphold the EU's core values of promoting peace and the well-being of its peoples. 

“The Union of 27 Member States will continue. The Union is the framework of our common political future. 

“We are bound together by history, geography and common interests and will develop our cooperation on this basis. 

“Together we will address our common challenges to generate growth, increase prosperity and ensure a safe and secure environment for our citizens. The institutions will play their full role in this endeavour.

“We now expect the United Kingdom government to give effect to this decision of the British people as soon as possible, however painful that process may be. Any delay would unnecessarily prolong uncertainty.”