← Back to Westminster Hall Debates

Trade and Agriculture Commission: Role in International Trade Deals — [Hannah Bardell in the Chair]

21 July 2021

Lead MP

Neil Parish
Tiverton and Honiton
Con

Responding Minister

Greg Hands

Tags

EconomyBrexitBusiness & TradeAgriculture & Rural Affairs
Word Count: 14418
Other Contributors: 12

At a Glance

Neil Parish raised concerns about trade and agriculture commission: role in international trade deals — [hannah bardell in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

I ask the Government to provide a date for responding to the TAC's report, establish core standards on which we will not compromise, develop an overarching strategy for agricultural and food trade that aligns domestic and international policies, and ensure the statutory Trade and Agriculture Commission is operational in time to scrutinize future deals.

How the Debate Unfolded

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

Lead Contributor

Tiverton and Honiton
Opened the debate
I am concerned about the lack of urgency from the Government regarding the Trade and Agriculture Commission's report. The non-statutory TAC published a report on March 2, providing 22 recommendations that have not been responded to adequately by the Department for International Trade since then. This delay raises doubts about whether the government has read and acted upon these recommendations before pursuing trade deals with countries like Australia.

Government Response

Greg Hands
Government Response
Addressed various aspects of UK's agrifood sector's performance and future prospects, highlighting £66 million-worth sales from beef access to the US by 2025, potential gains in Japan worth up to £127 million over five years, and benefits from CPTPP membership. Reaffirmed government commitment to uphold high standards for food and farming throughout FTA negotiations without compromising on animal welfare, food safety or environmental standards. Stressed that beef in major supermarkets is already 100% UK-branded and detailed the role of the Trade and Agriculture Commission (TAC) established by the Government to scrutinise trade policy. Announced TAC will be operational in time to review the Australia free trade agreement text, noting no impact on current standards from such agreements. Provided reassurance regarding market access work with international partners and promotion of UK produce abroad through DIT's network.
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.