Question to the Department for International Trade:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to make a free trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council conditional on improvements in those countries’ human rights, including the release of high-profile political prisoners.

The Gulf Cooperation Council is a major trading partner of the United Kingdom, with an overall trade relationship worth £30.3 billion in 2020. On 8^th October, HM Government opened a public consultation, requesting input from consumers, businesses, and civil society to help us craft a deal that levels up our nation.

HM Government is clear that more trade need not come at the expense of our values. The United Kingdom will continue to show global leadership in encouraging all states to uphold international rights and responsibilities.