Question to the Department for International Trade:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the Confederation of British Industry's warning that the UK may have to leave several existing trade agreements in the event of a no-deal Brexit.

Implementing the Withdrawal Agreement agreed with the EU remains the Government’s preferred outcome. This can ensure the UK’s continued participation in those trade agreements that the EU has struck with third party countries.

Nevertheless, a responsible Government prepares for all eventualities and work continues to transition these agreements into a UK context in time for an exit on 29^th March 2019.

The Government will update the House shortly on the progress of its continuity programme and will continue to inform the House when further agreements are signed.