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Trade Bill - Sitting 1

16 June 2020

Proposing MP
Judith Cummins Lab
Bradford South
Type
Public Bill Committee

At a Glance

Issue Summary

Judith Cummins introduces witnesses for a session on the Trade Bill and outlines the rules for questioning. Judith Cummins (Labour) is addressing the Trade Bill Committee regarding the Government Procurement Agreement and its implications for UK businesses. Judith Cummins addresses the importance of passing the Trade Bill to maintain trade continuity and credibility for British businesses. The MP discusses the impact of potential trade agreements and tariffs on UK industries, particularly highlighting concerns about engine exports to Turkey. Judith Cummins discusses the scrutiny of trade agreements and the effectiveness of expert trade advisory groups (ETAGs) and strategic trade advisory group (STAG). Judith Cummins addresses concerns regarding parliamentary scrutiny of trade agreements under the Trade Bill. Judith Cummins leads the questioning of Konrad Shek, deputy director for policy and regulation at the Advertising Association, regarding the Trade Bill's implications for businesses in the advertising and market research sectors. MP Judith Cummins introduces a witness for the Committee to provide oral evidence on the Trade Bill. Judith Cummins addresses technical difficulties during the Trade Bill committee session and suggests ending the session early.

Action Requested

The statement is purely informational, outlining the procedure for the Committee meeting and introducing witnesses from the Institute of Directors and the CBI to provide evidence on the Trade Bill. No specific action or proposal is made in this statement.

Key Facts

  • Judith Cummins reminds Members to follow the timing set out in the programme motion.
  • Allie Renison, head of EU and trade policy at the Institute of Directors, provides opening remarks.
  • Jonathan Brenton, head of trade policy at the CBI, also gives opening remarks.
  • The size of the global market covered by Government Procurement Agreement (GPA) is £1.3 trillion.
  • Major trading partners such as the US, Canada, EU, and Japan are signatories to the GPA.
  • There are significant procurement markets in states within the US that have not ratified GPA.
  • The roll-over agreements account for approximately 15% to 20% of trade for some sectors.
  • Losing access to these agreements would result in a loss of trust and credibility in the UK's trade policy.
  • A significant auto trade between the UK and Turkey, valued at billions, could face a 10% tariff without a good EU deal.
  • UK engine exports to Turkey were £100 million in 2015 and rose to £900 million by 2018.
  • Tariffs could increase by 10% if a roll-over trade agreement is not achieved, affecting the current thriving trade relationship.
  • CBI is part of both Strategic Trade Advisory Group (STAG) and expert trade advisory groups (ETAGs).
  • Members have asked for more transparency around ETAG membership.
  • There could be greater clarity about the role when it comes to negotiations.
  • The Institute of Directors sits on several ETAGs but not the main STAG.
  • The Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) is set up to undertake investigations.
  • Transparency is crucial in the TRA's operations.
  • The CBI seeks wider support and consensus for a strategic approach to UK trade policy.
  • Konrad Shek is deputy director for policy and regulation at the Advertising Association.
  • The association represents brands, advertisers, agencies, media, direct marketing, and market research.
  • The advertising and market research industry exported £9.7 billion according to ONS figures.
  • The hearing can last until 11:25 am.
  • Roy Freeland represents a high-technology SME in the rail industry.
  • There is support for the Bill but concerns about Government Procurement Agreement (GPA) issues and SME requirements.
  • The session is experiencing technical difficulties.
  • Judith Cummins suggests winding up the session earlier.
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