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Trade Deals: Parliamentary Scrutiny

12 October 2022

Lead MP

Anthony Mangnall

Responding Minister

Greg Hands

Tags

EconomyBrexitBusiness & TradeStandards & Ethics
Word Count: 9869
Other Contributors: 10

At a Glance

Anthony Mangnall raised concerns about trade deals: parliamentary scrutiny in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

The MP asks for a guarantee that a Secretary of State will appear before the International Trade Committee to discuss a trade deal ahead of their publication of any report on it. He also suggests amending CRaG to include debates and voteable motions so MPs can have opportunities to debate these agreements.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Opened the debate
The MP is concerned about the lack of transparency and clarity in the Government's approach to trade deals. He highlights that since leaving the EU, the UK has signed numerous trade agreements but there have been issues with parliamentary scrutiny. The International Trade Committee should be given more time before CRaG periods start, and Members from across the House should have an opportunity to read reports and debate trade deals in Parliament.

Government Response

Greg Hands
Government Response
Praised parliamentary scrutiny through CRaG, acknowledging its robust framework. Emphasized that no international treaty can change UK laws without Parliamentary approval and stressed the importance of engagement on human rights issues with trade partners.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.