Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

Israel Free Trade Agreement 2023-06-29

2023-06-29

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Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Direct Answer
Nicola Richards
▸ Context
No specific background event, but the context is about progress on negotiating a bilateral free trade agreement with Israel.
What progress has been made on negotiating a bilateral free trade agreement with Israel?
Nigel Huddleston
We are continuing to make progress towards an upgraded UK-Israel free trade agreement, focused on services, procurement and innovation. The second round of negotiations concluded on 17 May.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Nicola Richards
▸ Context
The UK's trade with Israel increased by 42% in 2022 compared to 2021, and it is valued at £7.2 billion. The question arises from the need for further strengthening of trade ties.
Can the Minister update the House on the Department's progress on the trade aims outlined in the 2030 road map for UK-Israel bilateral relations, including the establishment of a free trade agreement and related initiatives?
Nigel Huddleston
The benefits of the trade agreement are obvious. We have successfully concluded the second round of negotiations in London last month and look forward to further talks.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Specific details on the establishment of a UK-Israel Investment Group and innovation summit were not provided.
My Hon. Friend Is All Over The Numbers, Which Saves Me From Repeating Them.
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Jim Shannon DUP
Strangford
▸ Context
Northern Ireland companies are keen to benefit from bilateral trade agreements. Some people and councils wish to downgrade Israel's goods.
Will the Minister tell the House what he is prepared to do to ensure that Israeli goods are promoted right across this great United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland?
Nigel Huddleston
Once the deal is done, we will be actively working to ensure that communications about the benefits of the deal are understood by everybody. We will work with devolved Administrations and bodies to take full benefit from these deals.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Specific actions and timelines for promoting Israeli goods were not provided.
Response accuracy