Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Ranil Jayawardena and Patricia Gibson

Thursday 25th February 2021 Commons Chamber

[Patricia Gibson (North Ayrshire and Arran) (SNP) [V]]

With the Biden Administration announcing plans to end arms exports to Saudi Arabia, the UK is isolated on the world stage as it continues to sell arms to this barbaric regime. Will the Minister explain how this Government can claim to have the most effective export regime in the world when it has the moral stain of being virtually isolated in the world in its obstinate support for Saudi Arabia, which is a serial human rights violator?

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for International Trade (Mr Ranil Jayawardena)]

As I said earlier, we have one of the most robust systems in the world for arms export controls. All exports are governed by the consolidated criteria, and we have a proud record in this country of upholding our values. In the 19th century, we abolished slavery. In the 1990s, we were peacekeepers in the Balkans. We have always played our role in the world and we will continue to do so.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Ranil Jayawardena and Patricia Gibson

Thursday 18th June 2020 Commons Chamber

[Mr Jayawardena [V]]

As a newly independent trading nation, we will be able to champion free trade, fight protectionism and remove barriers at every opportunity. That includes tariffs. We will be trading on British terms with our new global tariff, which will cut red tape and cut costs for consumers and businesses in Gedling and in the region. My Department and our experienced international trade advisers will continue to support companies across the east midlands access exporting opportunities, and to provide export credit and insurance through UK Export Finance.

[Patricia Gibson (North Ayrshire and Arran) (SNP)]

What recent progress she has made on negotiating free trade agreements with (a) the US and (b) Japan.