Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Suella Braverman and Alister Jack

Thursday 15th March 2018 Commons Chamber

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union (Suella Fernandes)]

If the UK were to remain in the customs union, we would be unable to implement our own trade deals or set our own tariffs. The EU would be able to offer other countries access to our market, but we would not necessarily get access to other countries’ markets in return. This would not give us control over our trade policy and it would not respect the referendum result. We have a great chance for the first time in decades to develop a new trade policy by leaving the EU customs union.

[Mr Jack]

Will the Minister ensure that the final deal allows the UK to agree new trade deals around the world on day one after we leave the EU?

[Suella Fernandes]

That is one of the big prizes of Brexit: the freedom and chance to develop and sign new free trade deals around the world outside the EU, and it is our commitment that once we leave the EU we will be able to enjoy that freedom to the fullest.