Brexit: World Trade Organization

Debate between Baroness Sugg and Lord Livingston of Parkhead

Wednesday 11th October 2017 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Sugg]

As I said, our primary aim is to replicate as far as we can our trading deal and we remain confident that we will be able to do so.

[Lord Livingston of Parkhead (Con)]

My Lords, does the Minister agree that it is not unusual in WTO negotiations for the first answer to be no? That is not a surprise. It will not be easy, but we will work together with the WTO over a long period, not just on agricultural projects but on a range of issues. That reinforces the need for a transition period in the Brexit negotiations.

[Baroness Sugg]

Yes, absolutely. We are discussing agriculture, as well as many other issues, with our partners. It will take time—we were expecting that—but we are committed to working constructively and openly with our partners. As I say, the aim is to replicate our existing trading regime as far as possible.