Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from the appointment of new trade envoys and recent free trade agreements with Norway and Iceland.
What progress have my Department's newly appointed trade envoys made on promoting British exports and investment?
Our new trade envoys are strengthening commercial ties in their designated markets and assisting UK businesses to take full advantage of opportunities arising from our global trade and investment agenda.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific progress details or figures on export promotion efforts by the envoys.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Following the signing of a free trade agreement with Norway and Iceland, there is interest in deepening this relationship.
Can my hon. Friend update the House as to how his Department is looking to deepen the relationship between the UK and Norway and Iceland?
On 8 July, the UK signed the new, improved trade deal with Norway and Iceland. It is the most advanced trade deal ever signed by both countries, cutting tariffs and supporting jobs across the country.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific plans or commitments for deepening relationships beyond mentioning the existing agreement.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
HMRC documents show a significant decline in Scottish exports over the previous year, blamed on UK government decisions post-Brexit.
For the period ending June 2021, Scottish exports had decreased by 14% from the previous year. Will the Government apologise to Scottish businesses and offer compensation?
My role is to work closely with the Scottish Government on their exports policies, including our new office opened to boost co-operation and exports from Scotland. I accept criticism but ask time to address the problem.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide an apology or offer compensation as requested; instead suggested working together in future.
Asked For More Time
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Continued discussion on the decline of Scottish exports and its impact.
I also welcome the ministerial team to their place, and I echo the comments over the tragic loss of our parliamentary friend and colleague, Sir David Amess. It was a senseless act. Far from promoting Scottish exports, new documents show that for June 2021, Scottish exports had decreased by 14% from the previous year due to UK government decisions post-Brexit.
The food and drink sector across the whole of the UK, including Scotland, is a priority. I am happy to sit down with colleagues to work through challenges and deliver on trade opportunities.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide an apology or offer compensation as requested; instead changed subject to food and drink sector.
Changed Subject
Response accuracy
Q5
Direct Answer
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Context
Interest in the financial services sector as a significant opportunity for UK-Brazil trade relations.
Does the Minister agree that financial services represent a fantastic opportunity, not just for this country but to support Brazil in bringing in its own revenues?
Financial services are a huge part of the UK economy and represent significant opportunities for working with partners, especially Brazil, to share benefits and expertise.
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Assessment & feedback
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Response accuracy