Trade with Europe 2026-03-12
2026-03-12
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
James Asser is concerned about the steps needed to increase trade ties with Europe, particularly after years of difficult relations.
What steps is the Secretary of State taking to increase trade ties with Europe?
UK-EU collaboration is vital for growth and security, with 46% of the UK's total trade with the EU. In recent weeks, a new competition co-operation agreement was signed, and constructive meetings with Commissioners Ribera, Mînzatu and Virkkunen have been held.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific steps not detailed, only general statements about collaboration
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Tom Rutland highlights the Labour Government's efforts to repair relations with the EU and improve trade for businesses such as Worthing's Hobgoblin Music.
Will the Secretary of State update the House on the work being done to ensure that businesses like Worthing's Hobgoblin Music can benefit from the reset in relations with the European Union?
The reset relationship with the EU has been fundamental and has delivered for businesses right across Britain, including Hobgoblin in Worthing. We are tackling barriers to trade and working with the EU on business mobility and recognition of professional services.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific actions not detailed, only general statements about tackling barriers
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
James Asser highlights the importance of trading with newer markets in eastern Europe, particularly in the energy and tech sectors, mentioning the work of the UK-Bulgarian chamber of commerce.
Does the Secretary of State agree that we need to look at trading with newer markets in eastern Europe, which are keen to create trade, particularly when we have active business communities from those countries in the UK that are keen to build a partnership?
Our trade with every one of the newer EU member states has increased over the last 12 months. We are supporting Rolls-Royce in the Czech Republic, have won orders for Airbus aircraft from Polish Airlines, and are negotiating a trade agreement with Switzerland.
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Assessment & feedback
No direct agreement given, only examples of trade relationships
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Vikki Slade discusses the 90/180-day rule which has led to cancelled events and job losses in the road haulage sector, particularly in the music sector.
Will the Secretary of State look at finding a way to help professional drivers, particularly those in the music sector, keep the show on the road?
We are aware of those issues and they are part of our negotiations. We will see what we can do for the sector into the future.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific commitment given, only a vague promise to look at it
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
Clive Jones highlights the difficulties faced by businesses in Wokingham due to red tape and lost trade relationships in Europe.
What are the Government doing to develop and strengthen trade with Europe, so that businesses in Wokingham can start to grow again? Agreeing a bespoke customs union would be a really good start.
This Government are pledging to reduce the burden on business by 25%. We are very aware of the issue of regulation and barriers to trade, and I mentioned it in my meetings with three EU commissioners.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific action given, only a commitment to reduce burdens
Response accuracy