Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what consideration his Department has given to seeking a further extension or amendment to the 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. We are aware of the understandable and growing concern from industry about the potential impact of the upcoming rule changes on both EU and UK sides of the industry. We are engaging with the European Commission and the UK automotive sector on the issue to ensure a mutually advantageous solution. That includes, as a priority, looking to finalise joint guidance on the origin requirements related to Cathode Active Material.