Today I challenged the International Trade Secretary on her description of her recently secured trade deal with Norway, Iceland and Lichtenstein as a “major boost” for the UK.  

The Norwegian Government provided a more accurate assessment on their website – explaining that that deal is “not as comprehensive” as our previous arrangements, that trade would be “more bureaucratic and less dynamic” under this deal, and that – without a veterinary agreement – there will be “a number of trade barriers” that we did not previously face. 

Liz Truss avoided answering my question, and the Minister who responded couldn’t explain why the Government were satisfied with more red tape for exporters and importers, or how they’ll work to improve trading conditions for business. After a really difficult year, British businesses deserve better – Government must work to reduce costs and lessen the bureaucratic burden. 

Watch our exchange below, or read it here.