Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

SMEs European Trade

2026-05-21

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Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
Ben Maguire Lib Dem
North Cornwall
▸ Context
Small and medium-sized enterprises in North Cornwall have seen a decline in European trade post-Brexit, with tariffs impacting sales to both Europe and the US.
What steps his Department is taking to help small and medium-sized businesses trade with European nations. I am concerned about my constituent Hannah Willow's art businesses which saw European sales drop from 30% to 10% post-Brexit, and now face further customs duty on items under €150 entering the EU. Will the Government negotiate a bespoke customs union as proposed by Liberal Democrats?
Chris Bryant
I am not going to take any ideas from the Lib Dems on this matter. We maintain our position as the second-largest art market in the world by negotiating better agreements, including with the EU. Tarquin's Cornish Gin is doing well and winning awards internationally.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Negotiating a bespoke customs union for small businesses
I Am Not Going To Take Any Ideas From The Lib [K Dems On This Matter
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Ben Maguire Lib Dem
North Cornwall
▸ Context
Art businesses in North Cornwall have seen a significant decline in European sales due to tariffs post-Brexit, with further impact from the removal of de minimis threshold for imports.
I welcome reducing red tape but I need details. Hannah Willow's art businesses saw 30% of their European sales drop to 10%. 10%. Tariffs on trade led to a decline in US exports by 20%, and starting July, items under €150 entering the EU will incur customs duty and a flat fee per item. Will the Government negotiate a bespoke customs union as proposed by Liberal Democrats?
Chris Bryant
I am not going to take any ideas from the Lib Dems on this matter. We maintain our position as the second-largest art market in the world by negotiating better agreements, including with the EU. Tarquin's Cornish Gin is doing well and winning awards internationally.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Negotiating a bespoke customs union for small businesses
I Am Not Going To Take Any Ideas From The Lib [K Dems On This Matter
Response accuracy