Asked by: Sarah Wollaston (Liberal Democrat - Totnes)
Question to the Department for Exiting the European Union :
To ask the Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union, what assessment he has made of the benefits and opportunities available to the British aerospace industry after the UK leaves the EU.
Answered by Robin Walker
The UK is a world leading exporter in civil aerospace, with key strengths in some of the most complex parts of aircraft including engines, wings, and advanced systems such as landing gear. Through Government’s regular dialogue with the UK aerospace industry, we are aware of a range of opportunities the UK’s exit from the European Union may present for the sector.
To ensure the aerospace sector retains the maximum freedom to trade with and operate within European markets, we are seeking a bold and ambitious Free Trade Agreement as part of a new, deep and special partnership with the EU. The UK will continue to benefit from membership of the WTO Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft. Moreover, the Government will build an ambitious trade policy based on the UK’s national interest which will provide greater access to overseas markets.