Question to the Department for International Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for International Trade, what assessment he has made of the potential effect on shellfish exports of the UK leaving the EU (a) without and (b) with a deal; and what plans he has for trade in this sector after the end of any transition period.

The UK is seeking a deep and special economic partnership with the EU to ensure no tariffs, fees, charges or quantitative restrictions across all sectors, encompassing the best possible deal for the seafood sector, including for shellfish. The best way to ensure stability and continuity is through the Government’s Withdrawal Agreement.

We are working with countries across the world to explore the best ways to develop our trade relationships, including free trade agreements, to ensure that Britain becomes a global leader in free trade once we leave the EU. This will provide greater market access for UK products, including the UK fish and shellfish sectors.