Many jobs and livelihoods here in Llanelli rely upon our ability to trade smoothly and efficiently, not only in the UK but with other countries around the world.
From small, local enterprises that have been born and nurtured in our own communities, to national and international businesses that have chosen to invest in the creativity and expertise that our people can bring, it is important we foster relationships abroad that help our economy to grow and provide more long term, better paid jobs.
That is why the recent trade deal with the EU, coming on the back of other agreements reached with the US and India, is a huge step forward. It is a practical, sensible way to deliver economic growth, back British jobs and put more money in people’s pockets.
For our farmers, rural producers and our food businesses, it will make it easier for food and drink to be imported and exported by reducing red tape. Some routine checks on animal and plant products will be removed completely, allowing goods to flow freely again, leading to lower food prices and increased choice on supermarket shelves. After the 21% drop in exports seen since Brexit, we will now also be able to sell various products, such as burgers and sausages, back into the EU again.
Steel exports will be protected from new EU rules and tariffs saving £25m per year. That is in addition to the prosperity deal with the United States with 0% tariffs on steel, aluminium and the best US rate for automotives – a major boost for our manufacturers, including major employers such as Tata Steel in Trostre.
On security, the UK will enter talks about access to EU facial images data for the first time, on top of the existing arrangements for DNA, fingerprint and vehicle registration data, enhancing our ability to catch dangerous criminals more quickly. The agreement also includes further work on finding solutions to tackle illegal migration – including on returns and tackling channel crossings.
Holidaymakers will be able to use more eGates in Europe, ending the dreaded queues at border control. Pets will also be able to travel more easily, with the introduction of ‘pet passports’ for UK cats and dogs – eliminating the need for animal health certificates for every trip.
We’ve also agreed to co-operate on a youth experience scheme – which could see young people able to work and travel freely in Europe again. Capped and time-limited, it would mirror existing schemes the UK already has with countries such as Australia and New Zealand.
The UK and EU have also reached a new agreement that protects Britain’s fishing access, fishing rights and fishing areas with no increase in the amount of fish EU vessels can catch in British waters. The British fleet will also benefit from the agreement which slashes costs and red tape to help exports.
These measures alone are set to add nearly £9 billion to the UK economy by 2040 and meet our red lines of no return to the single market, no return to the customs union, and no return to freedom of movement.
The time has now come to look forward and not back, resetting our relationship with the EU and others in a way that takes account of the past but not in a way that stops us from standing up for local jobs, local businesses and local families. This deal is a serious, positive contribution to that transition.