Emily Jones examines next steps in UK Free Trade Agreements

With the end of the Brexit transition period approaching in December 2020, successful trade negotiations with key partners are vital for the UK as it develops its independent international trade policy. Emily Jones, Director of the Global Economic Governance Programme, examined the next steps for the UK’s proposed Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) in a seminar to members of the Whitehall and Industry Group (WIG), a charity and membership organisation encouraging cross-sectoral collaboration.

Speaking to an audience of 150 WIG members from multiple sectors and government departments, Emily outlined the progress of the UK’s proposed FTAs and contextualised the negotiations in light of the economic impact of COVID-19. With a particular focus on trade talks with the EU and US – which account for approximately 45% and 13.39% of UK exports respectively – she outlined the challenges and opportunities arising from the negotiations, before highlighting concerns around how the government is consulting with UK industry and wider stakeholders, and the lack of parliamentary oversight of FTAs.

The discussion formed part of WIG’s Brexit & International series, which examines the impact of Brexit on trade, international affairs and defence. The presentation is available to watch on YouTube.