Multilateral Free Trade

Baroness Coussins Excerpts

Monday 6th January 2025 Lords Chamber

[Lord Leong (Lab)]

I thank the noble Lord for that question. The Scottish whisky industry is the second most productive sector in Scotland, ranked just after renewable energies, and contributes £7 billion towards the UK economy. People from right across the world, in India, China and Japan, enjoy the flavoursome nature of Scotch whisky. We should encourage more people to enjoy Scotch whisky. I might need a stiff one after this.

[Baroness Coussins (CB)]

My Lords, what is the Government’s policy on whether free trade agreements should include a human rights clause?

[Lord Leong (Lab)]

My Lords, the noble Baroness makes a very important point. The Government’s policy is to engage with countries whose human rights records fall short, as opposed to isolation and the removal of our ability to support high standards. By having strong economic relationships with partners, the Government can have more open discussions on a range of issues, including human rights. We will push for this in any future FTAs.