House of Commons · General Debate
22 May 2025 · 9 other contributors
Opened by Liam Byrne Lab Birmingham Hodge Hill and Solihull North
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Liam Byrne raised concerns about uk-eu summit policy priorities 2025-05-22 in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The Business and Trade Committee's report on resetting the UK's relationship with the EU is presented, proposing various measures to improve trade relations, security cooperation, and reduce regulatory barriers. The report received overwhelming support from businesses for its pragmatic approach.
Emphasises the importance of consistency and clarity in policy for business growth, supporting the recommendation to rejoin the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean convention to simplify rules of origin and reduce trade barriers.
Expresses disappointment at the lack of progress on touring artists and EU defence spending, questioning whether trading access to fishing grounds was worth it. Acknowledges the value of an SPS agreement for shellfish exports.
Welcomes support from Salmon Scotland and National Farmers Union Scotland for the deal, criticising SNP's opposition despite business consensus supporting the report's recommendations.
Appreciates the aspirational statements but argues that the focus should be on significant measures like rejoining the customs union to make a substantial difference, given Europe represents 45% of UK trade.
Acknowledges the report's recommendations to improve access for businesses in Redditch with the EU. Highlights the need for continuous dialogue to reduce red tape as promised to pro-Brexit businesses.
Raises concerns about coastal communities being damaged by a multi-year fishing deal, emphasising the importance of balancing SPS deals with other international agreements without compromising existing alliances.
Compliments the report's pragmatic approach and highlights the Committee’s role in monitoring progress against Government commitments to ensure practical steps are taken towards better relations with Europe.
Calls for greater parliamentary involvement and questions if the UK-EU security pact truly opens the door towards joint procurement, suggesting there is more work needed before it amounts to a shared defence industrial base.
Questions about renewable energy and trade opportunities with Morocco, particularly regarding the UK-Morocco Power Project (Xlinks), emphasising its importance for future green initiatives.