Agriculture Bill: Food Production

Debate between Lord Gardiner of Kimble and Earl of Erroll

Monday 27th January 2020 Lords Chamber

[The Earl of Erroll (CB)]

Will the Government take into account, in international trade agreements that will be coming up, the fact that British farmers probably maintain much higher standards on the environment, livestock and farming as a whole than do our competitors abroad?

[Lord Gardiner of Kimble]

My Lords, we are committed to UK standards not being watered down in trade negotiations with other countries. I should say that treaties cannot change domestic law. Any changes to UK law required to implement a treaty will have to pass through Parliament. That is an important factor for us to remember.