UK-Gulf trade deal: Govt must not sell out farmers and undermine high standards

EMBARGO: IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Responding to reports that the UK Government is set to sign a new trade agreement with the Gulf states, Liberal Democrat Treasury Spokesperson and Deputy Leader Daisy Cooper MP said:

“Good trade deals with the Gulf states and others around the world have the potential to boost our economy and improve living standards, but Labour mustn't repeat the mistake of the last Conservative Government by selling out British farmers.

"If the Government further undermines our high food and animal welfare standards and Britain's food security, we will all be worse off.

"Not only that, but it seems the Government is selling out our free press for this deal too – permitting foreign stakes in British newspapers, with the UAE set to clinch 15% of the Telegraph.

"This shows yet again that Parliament must have a proper chance to scrutinise the Government's trade deals with each one being put to a debate and vote for Parliament as a whole.”

ENDS