Export of UK Services 2022-07-21
2022-07-21
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is seeking an assessment of recent trends in the level of exports of UK services, highlighting the importance of understanding current performance.
What recent assessment her Department has made of trends in the level of exports of UK services. The latest figures show a significant increase but the Member seeks details on any recent analysis or reports.
The Government are committed to promoting the UK's world leading strengths in services. Latest figures published by the Office for National Statistics show that service exports were £316 billion in the 12 months to the end of May, an increase of 7% on the previous 12 months. The Government's export strategy, published in November 2021, recognises the importance of services and commits the Government to working with the sector in its implementation.
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Assessment & feedback
The MP asked for a recent assessment, but the response provided general figures without specifying any recent analysis or report.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Centre for Economic Policy Research has reported a significant drop in service exports to the EU since Brexit, raising concerns about future stability and growth. The MP is questioning whether the Government have a plan to address this issue.
Since Brexit there has been a 6% drop in service exports to the EU according to Centre for Economic Policy Research. Services are Scotland's biggest export, so what, if anything, is the Department doing to stabilise and grow them? There is a real fear that the Government have no real plan for progress or change.
As we recover, we expect to see a continued increase in services exports. The hon. Member is right that Scotland is a significant exporter of services—worth more than £21 billion in 2020-21—making it the third largest exporting region in the UK. I wish all of our Scottish service exporters well, and it is the work of this Department to try to continue to grow that.
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Assessment & feedback
The MP asked for specific actions and plans to stabilize and grow service exports but received general assurances without detailed action points.
Response accuracy