Oral Answers to Questions

Anna McMorrin Excerpts

Thursday 11th June 2020 Commons Chamber

[Michael Fabricant (Lichfield) (Con)]

What recent assessment he has made of the state of trade negotiations between the UK and the EU; and if he will make a statement.

[Anna McMorrin (Cardiff North) (Lab)]

What recent assessment he has made of the progress of negotiations on the UK’s future relationship with the EU.

[Alison McGovern (Wirral South) (Lab)]

What recent assessment he has made of the progress of negotiations on the UK’s future relationship with the EU.

--- Later in debate ---

[Michael Gove]

My hon. Friend puts it perfectly, and his question is its own answer. I do not think we have heard any sage of Lichfield since Dr Johnson who has put things quite so well.

[Anna McMorrin]

With such slow progress on the talks, the Government somehow believe they can hold the EU bloc to ransom, but all they are doing is taking the country perilously close to no deal. Will the Minister confirm that the Government will do everything in their power to reach an agreement and translate legally what is written in the political declaration? On one specific point, will he push for the ability of the devolved Governments of Wales and Scotland to participate in the Erasmus programme and other schemes, so that students do not to miss out, if he will not stand up and do that for England?

[Michael Gove]

We all want an agreement, and I am grateful for the support and help that the devolved Administrations have given. I talk regularly to them, as does my right hon. Friend the Paymaster General. We know how important Erasmus is to many, and we will continue to seek membership of those programmes across the United Kingdom.