Oral Answers to Questions

James Grundy Excerpts

Tuesday 26th October 2021 Commons Chamber

[James Cleverly]

I remind the House that because of covid this country experienced the worst economic contraction in three centuries, and it was absolutely right that we responded to that. We remain, in both absolute and percentage terms, one of the most generous aid donors in the world. We are proud of that record, as I and my right hon. Friends in Government have said. We aim to return to 0.7% as soon as the fiscal situation allows.

[James Grundy (Leigh) (Con)]

3. What diplomatic steps her Department is taking to strengthen economic and security ties with international allies to help challenge hostile actors.

[The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Elizabeth Truss)]

We are deepening our economic and security ties with allies, including the United States, members of the comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-Pacific partnership, and India. We need to win the battle for economic influence through free enterprise and economies based on democracy.

[James Grundy]

Boosting our economic ties with India could provide opportunities for businesses in my constituency of Leigh and across the UK. Can my right hon. Friend assure the House that she will do everything she can to turbo-charge that relationship?

[Elizabeth Truss]

I completely agree with my hon. Friend. I was in New Delhi and Mumbai last week doing just that. India is a key strategic partner for the United Kingdom. It is the world’s largest democracy. There are huge opportunities. We are shortly about to launch trade talks with India and we are working to increase two-way investment flows.