Question to the Department for International Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for International Trade, what discussions her Department had with UK asparagus producers before resizing the Tariff Rate Quota on fresh asparagus from Mexico; and if she will make a statement.

The UK’s continuity mandate and negotiating strategy, and in particular the necessary resizing of all Tariff Rate Quotas (TRQs), has been informed by the government’s economic analysis, alongside other evidence, strategic priorities, and consultation with businesses and other stakeholders.

As the Government progresses with negotiations, it brings together the best evidence from across Whitehall, insight from external stakeholders, and a range of data and analytical tools. The Department for International Trade (DIT) maintains regular contact with businesses, including frequently meeting with business representation organisations, and trade and industry associations, across a range of sections to keep them informed on the developments in our work.