Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

International Trade Policy

Wednesday 30 June 2021 · 4 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 4 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Ministerial discussions have included engagement with Welsh Government and other devolved Administrations on international trade policy.
  • The UK Government plans to protect Welsh farmers through transition period protections and commitments on animal welfare.
  • Wales Office Ministers are in regular contact regarding the steel industry and expect a statement later in the day.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Richard Thomson
Scotland Wales Business & Trade
Context

There are concerns about lack of democratic involvement and oversight in the negotiation and approval of free trade deals, particularly the Australia deal.

Question

What recent discussions has the Minister had with (a) the Welsh Government and (b) other devolved Administrations on the UK Government's international trade policy? Does he share my concern that these administrations have not been involved democratically in negotiating and approving the Australian trade deal, despite its disproportionate impact?

Answer from Simon Hart

We have engaged devolved Administrations and numerous other stakeholders during the negotiation of free trade agreements. We are committed to opportunities offered by these deals for businesses in Wales and Scotland.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific timeline or commitment to involve Welsh Government Ministers fully in future trade talks

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Q2 Richard Thomson
Brexit Business & Trade Agriculture & Rural Affairs
Context

There is widespread concern that a proposed deal with Australia will disadvantage Welsh farmers due to lower animal welfare standards, and there is no action from the Government on steel safeguards.

Question

How does the Secretary of State plan to protect Welsh farmers in light of concerns over Australian trade deals? If he cannot, why won't he let Welsh Government Ministers participate fully in talks to defend their interests?

Answer from Simon Hart

We have engaged numerous stakeholders, including Welsh Government representatives. There are protections in place for farmers during transition periods. For the steel industry, we support Celsa Steel and expect a statement by close of play today.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific timeline or commitment to protect steel exports and ensure tariff-free entry into US

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Q3 Nia Griffith Lab Llanelli
Business & Trade Agriculture & Rural Affairs
Context

UK Government Ministers have dismissed concerns from agricultural communities regarding food standards in this deal, particularly concerning animal welfare.

Question

How will the UK Government ensure fair competition and that Australian imports meet expected standards of Welsh farmers?

Answer from Simon Hart

We have had local conversations with farmers, reassured them about transition periods and commitments on animal welfare. I urge the hon. Member to look at the opportunities for food producers in Wales.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific measures or guarantees to ensure fair competition and standards protection for Welsh farmers

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Q4 Nia Griffith Lab Llanelli
Brexit Business & Trade
Context

Government inaction on retaining steel import safeguards despite a deadline for action.

Question

With only hours left, what exactly have Wales Office Ministers done to intervene and stop cheaper foreign imports threatening our steel industry?

Answer from Simon Hart

We are in regular touch with colleagues on this matter. We support the steel industry, but she will have to wait until later today for a statement or announcement.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific actions taken by Wales Office Ministers to intervene and retain safeguards

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