Question to the Department for International Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for International Trade, what steps she is taking to increase trade with European countries.

Europe remains a vital export destination for British businesses, exporting £344.6 billion in the year to June 2022, up 16% in current prices on the previous year.

My department has around 300 trade experts across Europe, charged with resolving market access barriers, encouraging investment and promoting UK exports. Our refreshed Export Strategy launched last November to help businesses at every stage of exporting and will continue to help drive exports to Europe. It is a front door for businesses who require support adapting to changes following the UK’s departure from the EU.