Future Relationship with the EU Debate

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Department: HM Treasury

Future Relationship with the EU

Margaret Ferrier Excerpts
Tuesday 9th June 2020

(4 years, 4 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Penny Mordaunt Portrait Penny Mordaunt
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I think that behind the political bluster there is good faith, because not only are we starting out from similar positions, as my hon. Friend points out, but a good deal is in our mutual interests. That is why I have always remained optimistic about the outcome of this process. [Interruption.] Because the EU needs to recognise us a sovereign equal, and I hope that it does.

Margaret Ferrier Portrait Margaret Ferrier (Rutherglen and Hamilton West) (SNP) [V]
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World trade is forecast to decline by up to a third in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, and that could encourage a move to more protectionist trade policies globally. Given that context, why does the Minister think it is a good idea to rush through major changes to the UK’s trading relationship with the EU, when businesses want more time to recover from the economic shock of coronavirus and avoid a no-deal scenario?

Lindsay Hoyle Portrait Mr Speaker
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Minister, are you all right with that?