UK Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds has stated there are no current plans for the UK to join the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean Convention (PEM), which would allow tariff-free trade among various countries. This lack of plans comes despite positive remarks from EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic, who expressed his openness to Britain's involvement. The UK government is consulting businesses regarding the potential benefits of PEM but remains firm in its stance to adhere to its manifesto red lines. Critics, like the Liberal Democrats, are pushing for a better trading arrangement with the EU, labeling the government's position as negligent.
The UK has no current plans to join the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean Convention (PEM), according to Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds, despite positive EU overtures to facilitate trade.
We are always looking for ways to reduce barriers of trade, but within our manifesto red lines, because we take a pragmatic view as to where the national interest lies.
The minister's comment prompted anger from Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey, who accused the government of an 'act of economic negligence' regarding trade policy.
Maros Sefcovic described the UK’s participation in the PEM as a possibility, indicating that the EU is open to facilitating trade post-Brexit.
#uk-trade-policy #eu-relations #post-brexit-trade #pan-euro-mediterranean-convention #economic-negotiations
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