Context
The question is posed in the context of the upcoming Platinum Jubilee and other significant events such as the Commonwealth Games and CHOGM.
Question
In this year of the platinum jubilee, what better time could there be to cement our bond with Commonwealth countries? Does my right hon. Friend agree that this would be an excellent year to redouble our efforts to increase trade with those nations, which have such a strong history with our own?
Answer from Penny Mordaunt
I thank my hon. Friend for raising that. Yes, we have the jubilee, and we also have the Commonwealth games, and the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting is approaching. It is right that we celebrate and enhance the power of our Commonwealth family. We are united in our commitment to democracy, peace and prosperity, and we will continue to work with our partners to capture the potential of the Commonwealth advantage, which on average allows for 21% lower bilateral trade costs between Commonwealth countries, compared with most non-Commonwealth countries. We should put all our weight behind maximising that.
Not addressed: While acknowledging the significance of the events and expressing commitment to enhancing trade relations, no specific actions or commitments were provided regarding how these opportunities will be leveraged for increased trade.
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