Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of government's trade policies on food prices and availability.
What recent assessment has been made of the potential impact of the Department's trade policies on food prices?
We recognise the important role that trade can play in improving food security. Our free trade agreements help to remove market access barriers, supporting our importers and exporters. The new developing countries trading scheme reduces tariffs on nearly £1.4 billion-worth of agriculture goods.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a specific assessment or impact analysis requested
We Recognise The Important Role That Trade Can Play In Improving Food Security.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP references a director's statement about the need to increase access to affordable, nutritious food.
Melissa Leach from the Institute of Development Studies spoke about the need to increase access to affordable, nutritious food. Does the Minister accept that his Government's commitment to Brexit has led to increasing prices of imported food and contributed to food poverty?
Food price inflation is a global phenomenon, not unique to the UK. However, we have provided more than £94 billion-worth of support precisely to help the most vulnerable in society.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not accept the impact of Brexit on food prices and poverty as suggested by the questioner
Food Price Inflation Is A Global Phenomenon
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP acknowledges various factors impacting food inflation but focuses on the importance of getting new trade deals.
What is the most important thing that the Minister's Department can do to shore up British agriculture and have a positive impact on food prices?
My hon. Friend is correct. It is important that we have support across the House for these important trade deals, which are good for British farmers and consumers. We hope to see Opposition parties supporting such deals in future.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specifics on carrying out new trade deals as requested
We Hope To See Opposition Parties Supporting Such Deals In Future.
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP highlights rising food prices and mentions significant business support for a veterinary agreement.
Why will the Secretary of State not take the sensible step of starting negotiations for a veterinary agreement to reduce costs?
Discussions are ongoing about the trade and co-operation agreement, including dialogue with our EU partners. Since leaving the EU, we have reduced tariffs significantly in the best interests of British consumers.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not confirm or deny negotiations for a veterinary agreement as requested
Discussions Are Ongoing About The Trade And Co-Operation Agreement
Response accuracy