As the UK Government’s trade deals with Australia and New Zealand
enter into force today, 31 May, Rural Affairs Secretary has called on UK Ministers
to listen to the devolved governments when negotiating future
trade deals. She said:
“These trade deals are not good enough for Scotland’s producers -
they have been rushed through and the UK Government’s own
economic modelling shows that the agri-food sector will lose out.
“These agreements will provide Australian and New Zealand
exporters with unfettered access to the UK market, which could
allow an influx of goods, often produced to lower cost and
regulatory standards, and which could undercut our domestic
agri-food producers.
“By contrast, the EU has secured advantageous terms for the
agri-food sector in their trade deal with New Zealand, securing
more protective tariff rate quotas and coverage from day one, of
over 2000 food and drink products from the EU Geographical
Indicator scheme.
“Frustratingly, neither the Scottish Government nor its economic
agencies have been involved in the preparation for implementation
of these trade deals. Fundamental questions persist regarding the
sufficiency of UK Government led training and funding for
exporters. This will be vital if exporters are to leverage any
advantage possible from these trade deals.
“The UK Government’s approach to Brexit continues to undermine
devolution and reneges on promises made ahead of the EU
referendum.
“Going forward it is imperative that UK Ministers work
constructively with Ministers from the devolved governments and
industry to ensure that our agri-food producers are better
protected in future trade deals.”
