Cross-party group responds to OBR analysis on falling UK trade

Responding to analysis by the Office of Budget Responsibility that the UK missed out on much of the recovery in global trade after the start of the pandemic, and appears to be a ‘less trade intensive economy’, Hilary Benn MP, Co-Chair of UK Trade and Business Commission, said:

“These findings confirm what we already knew. The Government’s Brexit deal has undeniably made us poorer, and with exports below their pre-pandemic levels at the end of last year, the virus is no longer a viable excuse.

“With a cost of living crisis at home, UK businesses and consumers can no longer afford ministers who ignore the facts. They should now take seriously on the recommendations made by the UK Trade and Business Commission to improve their deal, support UK businesses, and outline how they intend to make the UK a more desirable place to trade.”