📢 Oral Answers to Questions

• The UK government has launched roadshows to bring overseas buyers to meet with small UK businesses in sectors like clean energy, manufacturing, life sciences, technology, and services.
• New online support is being offered to help UK small and medium-sized enterprises secure export orders in EU markets.
• Supply chain instability was highlighted as a significant barrier for small businesses exporting, with the government working to minimize uncertainties through new trade deals with the US, EU, India, and the Indo-Pacific.
• The government is addressing concerns about low-quality imports affecting British businesses by working with the Trade Remedies Authority to prevent the dumping of cheap goods.
• The UK’s trade deficit was discussed, with emphasis on increasing exports to various markets as a goal during the current Parliament.
• The government is negotiating free trade agreements with countries including the Gulf Co-operation Council, India, Israel, Korea, Switzerland, and Türkiye, as well as an economic deal with the United States.
• Discussions with the EU aim to improve trade relations, with a summit planned for May 19 to address trade barriers.
• The chemicals sector’s inclusion in the UK’s industrial strategy is being considered to boost the economy and national security, with a focus on supply chains and energy costs.
• Support for the hospitality sector includes permanent lower tax rates for certain properties and extending pub opening hours on VE Day.
• The government is reforming business rates, introducing banking hubs, fighting late payments, and enhancing the high street’s vibrancy to support high street businesses.
• Rural businesses will benefit from a forthcoming business growth service, aimed at providing easier access to information and support.
• Negotiations with the US are focusing on preventing a trade war, keeping trade open and beneficial for UK businesses.
• The government has intervened to secure the future of British Steel, preventing job losses and working on a broader steel strategy with a £2.5 billion clean steel fund.
• New support measures for the tourism and hospitality industry in Kent and other regions are in the works, including a national visitor economy strategy.
• The government is reviewing the export licensing system following delays that affected businesses, to improve efficiency and competitiveness.

The session displays a moderate level of disagreement, warranting a rating of 2 on a scale of 1 to 5. While there are numerous instances of differing opinions and critiques, they are mostly presented in a civil manner and are focused on policy-related issues rather than personal attacks or highly contentious debates. Here are some specific examples and explanations:

1. Disagreements on Specific Policies: There are instances where MPs challenge the government’s policies, such as the Employment Rights Bill. For example, Gregory Stafford argues that it will end flexible contracts needed by pubs, while Gareth Thomas counters with data on job creation and the Conservative’s past inaction (e.g., on pub closures). This shows disagreement but is framed within a policy discussion.

2. Oppositional Views on Trade Negotiations: MPs express differing views on trade negotiations. For instance, Ellie Chowns emphasizes the importance of aligning with the EU over the US, while Jonathan Reynolds argues that the UK can maintain strong relationships with both without choosing between them. These exchanges reflect disagreement on strategic priorities but are presented constructively.

3. Critiques of Government Actions: MPs like Dame Harriett Baldwin criticize the government’s approach to supporting businesses, citing economic data and opposing views on the effectiveness of government initiatives. Yet, responses from ministers like Gareth Thomas and Jonathan Reynolds often focus on explaining government strategies and achievements, such as the support for IKEA’s investment, rather than engaging in intense rebuttals.

4. Sector-Specific Concerns: There are multiple questions regarding sector-specific issues where differing views are evident. For example, Chris Law expresses concern about the impact of US trade negotiations on Scotland’s food and drink industry, while Mr. Alexander responds by affirming adherence to high standards. This reflects a policy-focused disagreement but does not escalate to high levels of contention.

5. General Political Disagreement: There is a backdrop of political disagreement between government and opposition parties, such as on business rates and support for rural businesses. However, these are generally discussed in a manner that suggests a willingness to engage with the issues, even if there are significant differences in perspective.

Overall, the disagreements are evident but are mostly contained within the bounds of respectful policy debate. There are no instances of extreme polarization or aggressive confrontations, which would be indicative of a higher level of disagreement. Therefore, the session is rated at 2, reflecting a moderate but not intense level of disagreement.