Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Cost of Living: Leaving the EU

Thursday 9 June 2022 · 2 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 1 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Chris Stephens asked about the impact of the UK leaving the EU on the cost of living.
  • The Minister noted that the Government has announced over 15 billion in additional support for those affected by rising prices.
  • Chris Stephens mentioned that Brexit-related trade barriers have driven up the cost of food by 6%.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Chris Stephens SNP
Economy Brexit
Context

The question stems from concerns about rising costs since the UK left the EU, affecting constituents' daily expenses and wellbeing.

Question

What recent assessment has his Department made of the impact on the cost of living of the UK having left the EU? The MP notes that many constituents are worried about rising prices and seeks an official evaluation of how Brexit has affected their finances.

Answer from Jacob Rees-Mogg

Her Majesty's Government understands rising price concerns and recently announced over £15 billion in additional support, targeting those most in need. This brings total support for this year to over £37 billion. However, it is challenging to isolate Brexit's effects on the UK economy, as other factors like food inflation in Germany and supply chain issues post-pandemic also influence prices. The government will push forward with the Brexit freedoms Bill and Procurement Bill to foster growth from leaving the EU.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The specific financial impact of Brexit on the cost of living was not directly assessed, focusing instead on broader economic factors and future initiatives.

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Q2 Chris Stephens SNP
Brexit
Context

The MP raises concerns about Brexit-related trade barriers causing a 6% increase in food costs, impacting constituents' financial struggles.

Question

Brexit-related trade barriers have driven up the cost of food by 6%, making life harder for those struggling with rising living costs. Does the Minister accept this harm and what do the Government intend to do about rising food prices?

Answer from Jacob Rees-Mogg

I am unsure of the source for these figures. The hon. Gentleman mentioned them but did not provide evidence beyond that claim. We have avoided adding controls on imports since July 1st to prevent additional costs and believe in free trade, avoiding non-tariff barriers. My right hon. Friend is negotiating numerous free trade agreements to reduce prices by fostering a free and open market.

Not addressed: The question about the impact of trade barriers on food prices was not directly addressed; instead, emphasis was placed on future free trade initiatives and negation of additional controls.

How: I Am Unsure Of The Source For These Figures., We Have Avoided Adding Controls On Imports Since July 1St

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