Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what discussions his Department has had with the European Commission on Rules of Origin requirements for electric vehicles and batteries under the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement.

New rules of origin requirements for electric vehicles under the TCA are scheduled to come into force on 1st January 2027. The UK Government recognises the growing concern from industry about the potential impact of the upcoming rule changes on the automotive sector in both the EU and the UK. We are engaging with the European Commission and the UK automotive sector on the issue to ensure a mutually satisfactory solution. That includes, as a priority, looking to finalise joint guidance on the origin requirements related to Cathode Active Material.