Oral Answers to Questions

Desmond Swayne Excerpts
Thursday 6th December 2018

(6 years, 10 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Kwasi Kwarteng Portrait Kwasi Kwarteng
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Those are my hon. Friend’s figures, and I know what his views on the subject have been over many years. The deal under consideration will be a sure footing on which we can grow the economy. I think the scare stories are misplaced and we have a bright future ahead, particularly in relation to our exports and our trade policy.

Desmond Swayne Portrait Sir Desmond Swayne (New Forest West) (Con)
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Why would the world’s eighth largest manufacturer want to leave 20% of its economy subject to the acquis?

Kwasi Kwarteng Portrait Kwasi Kwarteng
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My right hon. Friend has well-known views about these issues. Many manufacturers and businesspeople in Britain seek an assurance that they will be able to trade freely with the EU, and I think the acquis communautaire is something that they value.