Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask His Majesty's Government, following the revision to the UK's sovereign credit outlook by global ratings agency Fitch from negative to stable, what assessment they have made of the impact of this on the UK's standing in (1) global trade, and (2) investment markets.

On the 22nd of March 2024 Fitch returned the UK’s rating to AA- with a stable outlook, meaning all three major credit ratings agencies now indicate that the UK has a stable outlook.

This is further evidence that the economy is turning a corner. Inflation has fallen from over 11% to 3.4% and is forecast to fall back to target in a few months’ time. The economy has grown so far this year, with growth forecast to pick up both this year and next. Debt is falling in the final year of the forecast, meeting our fiscal rules.

Underlying demand for the UK’s sovereign debt remains strong and is supported by a generally well-diversified investor base. This reflects the UK’s central position in global trade and investment markets.