Context
The UK trade performance is the worst on record, with lost output estimated at £100 billion annually. The government claims to have secured £800 billion in new free trade deals, but most are roll-overs of existing agreements.
Question
What steps she is taking to increase exports? I am concerned about UK trade performance being the worst on record and businesses in my constituency overburdened with red tape. Lost output is estimated at £100 billion a year. Most post-Brexit trade deals are roll-overs, not new agreements. How can businesses improve growth and trade with the EU?
Answer from Andrew Bowie
I thank the hon. Gentleman for that question, but I am afraid what he says is simply not true: the Japan deal was not a roll-over; neither were those with Australia and New Zealand; the comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-Pacific partnership discussions we are in right now will not lead to a roll-over; and a deal with India will not be a roll-over. Trade with the EU in the year up to June was up by about 18% and worth £652.6 billion. We are committed to growing our exports around the world, supporting British exporters to sell fantastic British goods and services into new markets, but also continuing to sell into the EU very effectively.
Not addressed: The questioner specifically asked about roll-over deals and how businesses in Bedford can improve growth with the EU, but the answer focused on refuting claims about roll-overs without providing specific actions for businesses.
How: Refute Claims
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