Business and Trade

Monday 4th September 2023 Ministerial Corrections

Topical Questions

The following is an extract from Business and Trade topical questions on 29 June 2023.

[Mr Barry Sheerman (Huddersfield) (Lab/Co-op)]

Is the Secretary of State aware of just how much influence the Chinese Government and Chinese companies have on our economy? Is she aware that many times I have asked for an audit of how big that influence is? Does she share the concern of many businesses in our country that the Chinese Government are using subterfuge and espionage to further their interests?

[Mr Speaker]

That’s three questions—pick whichever one.

[Kemi Badenoch]

I do not think we need an audit. China is our fourth largest export market, and we are aware of the economic challenge that it poses across the world. We work with countries across the world, but we have a pragmatic relationship with China. We need to use our influence to help them get to a better place, but I take the hon. Gentleman’s point.

[Official Report, 29 June 2023, Vol. 735, c. 420.]

Letter of correction from the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, the right hon. Member for Saffron Walden (Kemi Badenoch):

An error has been identified in my response to the hon. Member for Huddersfield (Mr Sheerman).

The correct response should have been:

[Kemi Badenoch]

I do not think we need an audit. China is our fourth largest trading partner and seventh largest export market, and we are aware of the economic challenge that it poses across the world. We work with countries across the world, but we have a pragmatic relationship with China. We need to use our influence to help them get to a better place, but I take the hon. Gentleman’s point.