Question to the Department for Exiting the European Union :

To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with (1) car manufacturers, (2) bricks, tiles and ceramics manufacturers, and (3) farmers and the food industry concerning the impact of the absence of tariffs on those groups in the event that the UK leaves the EU without a deal.

Ministers engage broadly with each of these sectors, including via government-led sector councils with the farming and food sector, regular meetings of the Automotive Council and roundtables with the manufacturing organisation EEF that include bricks, tiles and ceramics manufacturers. In the discussions, we engage on priority issues for each sector.

We are working to develop the UK’s independent tariff policy in accordance with the provisions contained within the Taxation (Cross-border Trade) Act. We are looking at a full spectrum of options for tariffs post EU Exit and will consider carefully the evidence available to us before making a final decision in the interests of UK industry and consumers.

The Government is committed to an open and liberal economy that works for everyone, offering protection from possible price impacts of a no deal scenario and avoiding exposure to unfair competition.