Trade with Europe 2026-07-02
2026-07-02
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The EU is a key trading partner for Scotland, accounting for almost 40% of Scotland's international exports. Trade in goods with Europe has fallen by 2% in the last year.
What steps his Department is taking to increase trade with Europe?
We are seeking bilateral wins like the small modular reactors deal in Sweden and pilot digital trade corridors with Germany and France. We aim to renegotiate a reset with the EU, considering the previous Government's Brexit deal was appalling for British businesses.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address plans to align more areas of the single market or specific actions being taken while waiting for EU summit date.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Brexit has resulted in a detrimental impact on Scottish businesses, causing almost £4 billion in lost revenue annually. Businesses report that Brexit is the main cause of trade difficulties.
What steps are being taken to support farmers affected by barriers caused by labour shortages, trade friction, and uncertainty over subsidies?
I am campaigning for a better EU deal to ensure UK farmers can export easily into the European Union, and goods from Europe can enter the UK without barriers. This is essential across sectors like art and farming.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address any specific support measures or plans for Scottish farmers affected by Brexit-related issues.
Changing Subject To A Campaign For Better Eu Deal
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Ten years post-Brexit, businesses report trade difficulties, particularly in sectors like farming due to labour shortages, long-term uncertainty over subsidies.
What is being done to support farmers impacted by barriers caused by Brexit?
Campaigning for better EU deal to ensure easy export of UK farming products into the EU. This is crucial across sectors, like arts, as explained by Tracy Emin regarding issues since Brexit.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address any specific support measures or plans for Scottish farmers affected by Brexit-related issues.
Changing Subject To A Campaign For Better Eu Deal
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Joining the single market could boost UK GDP by £25 billion annually. Single market membership would restore passporting rights for financial services and eliminate rules-of-origin red tape.
Does the Minister agree that there is political momentum now to negotiate a new growth and defence partnership with Europe?
Agreeing in principle but not signing up to any Liberal Democrat campaign, as the party was part of creating momentum toward the Brexit referendum.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address specific plans or commitment for negotiating new growth and defence partnership.
Criticising The Liberal Democrats
Response accuracy