0:00:00 > 0:00:01round-up of the day in both Houses of Parliament at 11pm. First,
0:00:01 > 0:00:12questions to David Davis and his mystical team. -- ministerial.
0:00:12 > 0:00:16I will answer questions one and 18, we focused on making the exit from
0:00:16 > 0:00:21the EU and our new trading relationship a success, we set out
0:00:21 > 0:00:28proposals which minimises barriers to goods and services. Partnerships
0:00:28 > 0:00:33should be underpinned by high standards, trusts in its juices and
0:00:33 > 0:00:40a shared spirit of cooperation. Does he agree with me regulatory
0:00:40 > 0:00:44equivalence should be a red line in our negotiations if we want to do
0:00:44 > 0:00:51trade deals with other countries? I would say that is about pursuing
0:00:51 > 0:00:56the same objectives and this could be achieving the same goals by the
0:00:56 > 0:01:01same means or by different means, it does not mean we have to harmonise
0:01:01 > 0:01:13our rules. It is not a binary choice, this is a bespoke choice.
0:01:13 > 0:01:22Thank you. The Institute Of Directors would prefer the UK to
0:01:22 > 0:01:25maintain regulatory alignment with the single market rules for goods
0:01:25 > 0:01:30and service is rather than seek to diverge after Brexit.
0:01:30 > 0:01:34Is that the aim of the Government as well?The Government has been
0:01:34 > 0:01:40talking to a wide range of industry groups and we recognise there are
0:01:40 > 0:01:45benefits in some areas of maintaining alignment and ensuring
0:01:45 > 0:01:50we have the most frictionless access to European markets. We want to take
0:01:50 > 0:01:55the best opportunity to trade with Europe and the wider world.
0:01:55 > 0:02:00Is it true me shall Barnier has offered us the Canada model
0:02:00 > 0:02:04agreement which could be reached this year negating the need for a
0:02:04 > 0:02:11transition period? The policy of the Government is we
0:02:11 > 0:02:19are pursuing a bespoke trade agreement, and we do believe it will
0:02:19 > 0:02:26be in the interests to secure and interpretation period.
0:02:26 > 0:02:32The EU has clearly and firmly set out its views on the options for
0:02:32 > 0:02:36these negotiations. Ministers so far have failed to provide any coherent
0:02:36 > 0:02:43response because they can't agree. These answers underline this, we
0:02:43 > 0:02:48just don't know. How long will it be before the British Government has a
0:02:48 > 0:02:54coherent position to set out? The Prime Minister has set out a
0:02:54 > 0:03:04coherent position -- And my colleagues have been making speeches
0:03:04 > 0:03:07setting out the objectives of the UK. We look forward to achieving
0:03:07 > 0:03:13those. The Minister will no legal text is
0:03:13 > 0:03:18being looked at in terms of the progress report in December on the
0:03:18 > 0:03:23issue of regulatory alignment dustup can we be sure nothing will be put
0:03:23 > 0:03:30into legal text prejudices our interpretation in relation to
0:03:30 > 0:03:35regulatory alignment? I can give that assurance, it is
0:03:35 > 0:03:38important we secure the agreement based on the joint report and that
0:03:38 > 0:03:46secures the position on the territorial integrity of the UK.
0:03:46 > 0:03:54Question number two. The Government conducts a broad
0:03:54 > 0:04:00range of work on EU exit issues and will continue to do so. That means
0:04:00 > 0:04:05all decisions including those on the EU Customs Union are supported by
0:04:05 > 0:04:10many analysis. Leaving the Customs Union liberates the UK to establish
0:04:10 > 0:04:16new and fruitful trade deals with the rest of the world, and pursue a
0:04:16 > 0:04:22new trading relationship with the EU which remains as frictionless trade
0:04:22 > 0:04:27in goods. It is clear no assessment has been
0:04:27 > 0:04:32made. We have had it confirmed this week the north-east retail and
0:04:32 > 0:04:38manufacturing sectors will be hardest hit in all scenarios. It is
0:04:38 > 0:04:43clear 200,000 workers in my region who work in these sectors face a
0:04:43 > 0:04:46grim future because of this Government's inability to get its
0:04:46 > 0:04:50act together. One of the advantages although there
0:04:50 > 0:04:56are many of leaving the Customs Union is Britain can be a champion
0:04:56 > 0:05:05for global free trade again for the first time in 40 years. Free
0:05:05 > 0:05:11trade... Through mutually beneficial partnerships has historically
0:05:11 > 0:05:14ushered in productivity, innovation, consumer choice, growth and
0:05:14 > 0:05:18prosperity, something I hope the honourable lady would encourage.
0:05:18 > 0:05:24I warmly welcome my friend to her place, it is great to see a ray of
0:05:24 > 0:05:29sunshine, and positivity, from the front bench, what a shame we don't
0:05:29 > 0:05:34see opposite. Is she surprised we are still discussing the Customs
0:05:34 > 0:05:39Union, the EU has ruled it out, the Leader of the Opposition has ruled
0:05:39 > 0:05:43it out, why are we still talking about it?
0:05:43 > 0:05:51He raises a good point, the British people have voted in their historic
0:05:51 > 0:05:55decision in 2016 to leave the EU and in doing so have instructed this
0:05:55 > 0:05:59Parliament to take us out of the Customs Union which is what the
0:05:59 > 0:06:08Prime Minister is doing. Blaenau Gwent has been boosted by
0:06:08 > 0:06:13the arrival of the TVR car company, does the Minister agree with me we
0:06:13 > 0:06:18need a Customs Union with the EU ventures like this to survive and
0:06:18 > 0:06:26thrive? The UK is the second largest market
0:06:26 > 0:06:30for cars in Europe and it is clearly in both of our interests to continue
0:06:30 > 0:06:36this partnership between our industries. Isn't it encouraging
0:06:36 > 0:06:42companies like Jaguar Land Rover, Nissan, Toyota, McLaren have made
0:06:42 > 0:06:46significant investments in the UK since the referendum? I am committed
0:06:46 > 0:06:50with this Government to ensuring as frictionless trade as possible to
0:06:50 > 0:06:57continue this fruitful arrangement and support this vital sector.
0:06:57 > 0:07:03It may be the Minister is not a work in fact car production went down for
0:07:03 > 0:07:09the first time since 2009 and investment in the industry has gone
0:07:09 > 0:07:12down by 500 million. When will the Government confirm what its plans
0:07:12 > 0:07:17are in relation to the Customs Union so companies that manufacture here
0:07:17 > 0:07:21know their components can get safely into the UK and not get stuck in a
0:07:21 > 0:07:28traffic jam at Calais? We are seeing a rise in
0:07:28 > 0:07:36manufacturing, a rise in exports, UK foreign direct assessment at a
0:07:36 > 0:07:43record high. The economy is doing very well. We are seeing encouraging
0:07:43 > 0:07:51signs in confidence in the UK since Brexit. We want to ensure this
0:07:51 > 0:07:54automotive sector benefits from any arrangement and that will be a
0:07:54 > 0:08:02priority for this Government. We know all of the analysis the
0:08:02 > 0:08:06Government has done shows Brexit is bad news, we note the prime Mr Bush
0:08:06 > 0:08:11showed that if you days ago and the first thing she did was to jump on a
0:08:11 > 0:08:15plane to China. Can she confirmed reports yesterday
0:08:15 > 0:08:20that the Government analysis also shows their obsession of cutting EU
0:08:20 > 0:08:25migration will be seriously bad for the British economy?
0:08:25 > 0:08:30We are in the middle of negotiations but when it comes to migration it is
0:08:30 > 0:08:36clear the UK will be committed to designing its own immigration policy
0:08:36 > 0:08:41which is determined by skills and talent and brains, and that is what
0:08:41 > 0:08:47will create jobs and growth. The question on the report was
0:08:47 > 0:08:57correct and I will take that George... The Government analysis
0:08:57 > 0:09:02shows leaving the EU is bad, and the Customs Union, and the single
0:09:02 > 0:09:07market, and now we know cutting immigration from the EU is bad news.
0:09:07 > 0:09:13Does the Government have plans before exit to adopt a strategy
0:09:13 > 0:09:16based on facts and evidence rather than ideology?
0:09:16 > 0:09:23The document to which the honourable member is referring to is not
0:09:23 > 0:09:27Government policy, it comes with significant caveats and is limited.
0:09:27 > 0:09:31It is clear there are significant benefits from our departure, first,
0:09:31 > 0:09:35the chance for the first time in 40 years to pursue our independent
0:09:35 > 0:09:48global trade policy. Secondly, free from the common external tariff. And
0:09:48 > 0:09:52lastly, the opportunity to build a new customs arrangements with the EU
0:09:52 > 0:09:56that is world leading and enables prosperity, jobs and growth.
0:09:56 > 0:10:02Number three, Mr Speaker. Across Government we are planning
0:10:02 > 0:10:09for all outcomes including the unlikely scenario where no agreement
0:10:09 > 0:10:13can be reached. Given the success in agreeing in the first phase, we are
0:10:13 > 0:10:17constant we will reach a swift agreement on an implementation
0:10:17 > 0:10:23period and future partnership with the EU. We anticipate success and a
0:10:23 > 0:10:30good deal for the UK and EU. Given the propensity to rubbished
0:10:30 > 0:10:36the Government's own research, will they commission the independent
0:10:36 > 0:10:41Office for Budget Responsibility to model the budgetary and economic
0:10:41 > 0:10:49impacts of before departure options and a Canada style deal, and joining
0:10:49 > 0:10:54the FDA, and when he released this modelling to Parliament?
0:10:54 > 0:11:00The responsibility is set out in legislation, we have no plans to
0:11:00 > 0:11:11change that. A number of colleagues have raised EFTA. It would be
0:11:11 > 0:11:14important to have a debate. I would like to hear what problems
0:11:14 > 0:11:20colleagues believe this would solve, in particular in relation to our
0:11:20 > 0:11:25relations with the EU because Swiss bilaterals have been pulled out. We
0:11:25 > 0:11:29don't propose to join the EEA.
0:11:36 > 0:11:40I know the Secretary of State is an early riser, but did any of them
0:11:40 > 0:11:44listen to the former Chancellor George Osborne this morning on Radio
0:11:44 > 0:11:504? What are they going to say about what he says about the fact that
0:11:50 > 0:11:52this country, especially the manufacturing sector, is doomed
0:11:52 > 0:11:59outside of the European Union.I don't accept the premise of his
0:11:59 > 0:12:02question and unfortunately, I didn't have the opportunity this morning to
0:12:02 > 0:12:06listen to the former Chancellor on Radio 4. The Secretary of State says
0:12:06 > 0:12:11he has done so. I am grateful to him for reminding me fondly of the time
0:12:11 > 0:12:15I did listen to the former Chancellor on Radio 4 before I went
0:12:15 > 0:12:23on after him in the height of the campaign.Does he agree that it's
0:12:23 > 0:12:28important that we keep our skies as open as possible post-Brexit. Can he
0:12:28 > 0:12:32provide me reassurance that he is engaging with the aviation sector to
0:12:32 > 0:12:38make sure this industry can continue to thrive under any post-Brexit
0:12:38 > 0:12:44scenario?I can give them that assurance and it is an all our
0:12:44 > 0:12:48mutual interest to make sure that aviation continues to be open and
0:12:48 > 0:12:52liberal. The Secretary of State for Transport as well appraised of the
0:12:52 > 0:13:01issues and pursuing them.The papers tell us the region is most damaged
0:13:01 > 0:13:04by Brexit would be the West Midlands Northern Ireland and the north-east.
0:13:04 > 0:13:08The people of these regions deserve better, so will the Minister take
0:13:08 > 0:13:12the opportunity to make it clear to certain colleagues sitting behind
0:13:12 > 0:13:16him that they are wrong and irresponsible to be talking up or
0:13:16 > 0:13:24wishing for a no deal outcome?To answer her very directly on that
0:13:24 > 0:13:29last point, as I've said earlier in the sands, it is our policy to seek
0:13:29 > 0:13:34a mutually beneficial deep and special partnership with the
0:13:34 > 0:13:35European Union, embracing an economic partnership among other
0:13:35 > 0:13:41things and we are optimistic about achieving that outcome.They are
0:13:41 > 0:13:46wrong and there is responsible to be doing so. As well as certain regions
0:13:46 > 0:13:51being hit hardest, certain sectors are threatened severely by a no deal
0:13:51 > 0:13:56Brexit. Take the food and drink industry, which exported £9.8
0:13:56 > 0:14:03billion worth of goods to the EU last year. Once and for all, can the
0:14:03 > 0:14:06Minister roll out a no deal outcome, commit to ease transition on current
0:14:06 > 0:14:11terms and give industry the certainty it needs?I find her
0:14:11 > 0:14:15question peculiar. She seems to be suggesting I would adopt something
0:14:15 > 0:14:24other than government policy. It is government policy to security and
0:14:24 > 0:14:26information -- implementation period. It is policy to be
0:14:26 > 0:14:31responsible and exit the European Union under any circumstances it may
0:14:31 > 0:14:38prove necessary.As the Prime Minister made clear in her open
0:14:38 > 0:14:42letter to EU citizens, we highly value the contributions they make to
0:14:42 > 0:14:47the cultural and social fabric of the UK. Safeguarding the rights of
0:14:47 > 0:14:51residents was a first priority for negotiations. This is a commitment
0:14:51 > 0:14:57we have delivered. The agreement reached in December not only gives
0:14:57 > 0:15:00those covered certainty of residency but also health care and pensions
0:15:00 > 0:15:07and benefits.The 2011 census data that 20% of Kensington and Chelsea's
0:15:07 > 0:15:11population by EU nationals. In Kensington, we have three schools
0:15:11 > 0:15:15for Spanish and French students. Families are living in fear of the
0:15:15 > 0:15:19uncertainty. But the discussions on EU citizens rights opening next
0:15:19 > 0:15:25week, will he reassure my existing EU constituents that they will
0:15:25 > 0:15:30retain all their rights once we live the EU?I think she should welcome
0:15:30 > 0:15:36the fact that we reached agreement on that wide range of rights. That
0:15:36 > 0:15:39does provide certainty. What we want to do is work with colleagues at the
0:15:39 > 0:15:43Home Office to make sure there is a streamlined process for the new
0:15:43 > 0:15:49settled status to secure those rights in the long-term.Is he not
0:15:49 > 0:15:53concerned that the Prime Minister's reported comments that the more
0:15:53 > 0:15:58limited access to rates for those arriving during transition, make
0:15:58 > 0:16:02create a chilling effect on drawing the skills and talents such as
0:16:02 > 0:16:06colleagues book of a minute ago, coming to the UK and meeting the
0:16:06 > 0:16:14Labour market gaps that we urgently need to fill in many sectors?During
0:16:14 > 0:16:17the implementation period, EU citizens will continue to be able to
0:16:17 > 0:16:21visit, live and work in the UK as they do now. We will use a speedy to
0:16:21 > 0:16:26prepare for the Newmarket. There will be a new registration scheme in
0:16:26 > 0:16:29preparation for the new system. The citizens rights agreement reached in
0:16:29 > 0:16:33December does go certainty about the rights of EU citizens already here,
0:16:33 > 0:16:43but it does not cover those arriving after we leave the EU.Can my
0:16:43 > 0:16:45honourable friend confirmed that during the implementation period,
0:16:45 > 0:16:52all foreigners, including those from the European Union will be treated
0:16:52 > 0:16:58equally in having access to our country?We will remain an open and
0:16:58 > 0:17:04tolerant country, one that recognises a valuable contribution
0:17:04 > 0:17:07to make our society better, but we will also control the overall number
0:17:07 > 0:17:12of migrants coming to the UK. As we leave the EU, we seek to form
0:17:12 > 0:17:17ambitious new trade deals around the world. We will have control of our
0:17:17 > 0:17:25borders, and free movement will end when they leave the EU.In Florence
0:17:25 > 0:17:28five months ago, the Prime Minister set out the proposal for the
0:17:28 > 0:17:32implementation period under current terms and utilising the existing
0:17:32 > 0:17:37structure of European Union rules and regulations, including the
0:17:37 > 0:17:42European Court for that time limited period. This is necessarily bit
0:17:42 > 0:17:45close of only one set of changes and minimum disruption. We are also
0:17:45 > 0:17:52clear that our priority in the long-term, getting out of the single
0:17:52 > 0:17:58market and out of the customs union without a direct uses diction.The
0:17:58 > 0:18:01European Court will be deciding on issues in this country, and of
0:18:01 > 0:18:05British businesses want to continue doing business with the rest of
0:18:05 > 0:18:08Europe, they will have to abide by the rules of the single market.
0:18:08 > 0:18:11British citizens will have fewer rights than the rest of Europe than
0:18:11 > 0:18:23they do now. Will he propose that we hand them over our money as well?I
0:18:23 > 0:18:28must admit, that is the first ever seen him in alliance with my right
0:18:28 > 0:18:34honourable friend, the member for the 19th-century over there.If the
0:18:34 > 0:18:38government were regrettably to accept EU negotiating guidelines, so
0:18:38 > 0:18:43that the UK remain subject to the Judas diction of the European Court
0:18:43 > 0:18:46of Justice during the implementation period, what arrangements would be
0:18:46 > 0:18:51put in place to safeguard the interests of Britain, given that
0:18:51 > 0:19:03there would be no British judges? During that period, the primary
0:19:03 > 0:19:07concern I have is of any new laws coming into effect, of which we had
0:19:07 > 0:19:11had no say and we will be aiming to set up arrangements to make sure
0:19:11 > 0:19:22they do not do harm to the United Kingdom.After the foreign speech,
0:19:22 > 0:19:27the honourable member from Fareham coordinated a letter to the research
0:19:27 > 0:19:32group describing the government policy on the transitional period
0:19:32 > 0:19:37as, staying in the EU by stealth. She has not yet replied to my letter
0:19:37 > 0:19:44of the 14th of January offering her the opportunity to retract that. But
0:19:44 > 0:19:47the Secretary of State agree that these divisions at the heart of
0:19:47 > 0:19:50government jeopardise our own negotiations? And would you confirm
0:19:50 > 0:19:58that all the ministers about government policy on transition?All
0:19:58 > 0:20:01my ministers support government policy, which is more than I can say
0:20:01 > 0:20:08for the opposition front bench. Ministers from across government
0:20:08 > 0:20:12have carried out extensive engagement on EU exit, both in the
0:20:12 > 0:20:19UK and the EU, with business heads and representatives from all parts
0:20:19 > 0:20:26of the economy. The Prime Minister surety quarterly business advisory
0:20:26 > 0:20:30Council to hear directly from senior business leaders on the key issues
0:20:30 > 0:20:36across EU exit and the wider economy.Coming from Coventry, which
0:20:36 > 0:20:41is the home of the UK water industry, have been delighted by its
0:20:41 > 0:20:45resurgence in recent years, but it did see a fall in output of 3% last
0:20:45 > 0:20:52year, attributed to the need for clarity and Brexit transition. Given
0:20:52 > 0:20:57the importance of car manufacturer in the West Midlands economy, what
0:20:57 > 0:21:00reassurance can you give the industry about the future trading
0:21:00 > 0:21:07relationship with our European partners?I 2am delighted by the
0:21:07 > 0:21:11resurgence to which he refers. It's precisely because of the request and
0:21:11 > 0:21:18the results of the engagement and government proposals for a
0:21:18 > 0:21:22implementation period, have been welcomed by various sectors of our
0:21:22 > 0:21:27economy, promising the clarity needed to plan ahead. We in the EU
0:21:27 > 0:21:30want to agree the detail of the implementation by the end of March,
0:21:30 > 0:21:35making good as swiftly as possible on our promise of certainty. We are
0:21:35 > 0:21:39seeking a bold and ambitious economic partnership, with the
0:21:39 > 0:21:42greatest possible tariff and barrier free trade arrangement with our
0:21:42 > 0:21:49European neighbours.Businesses in the north-east that I speak to tell
0:21:49 > 0:21:53me of international investments put on hold while companies try to work
0:21:53 > 0:21:56out what kind of Brexit this government is actually going for.
0:21:56 > 0:22:02They don't want to make that public, so can the Minister tell me how she
0:22:02 > 0:22:06is engaging with International business to make an assessment of
0:22:06 > 0:22:10that impact on our economy and whether indeed there is an
0:22:10 > 0:22:16assessment going on, because I forget which story it is today?I
0:22:16 > 0:22:19hope she was listening to the Secretary of State's very detailed
0:22:19 > 0:22:24presentation of speech on Friday, in which he set out the terms of an
0:22:24 > 0:22:27implementation period, which address exactly the issues she raises now.
0:22:27 > 0:22:31It will provide a bridge and a platform for businesses to enable
0:22:31 > 0:22:35them to plan for the future, to give them the time that they need and to
0:22:35 > 0:22:41plan on that basis for the prosperous future outside.The
0:22:41 > 0:22:44services sector is the largest part of the British economy and while the
0:22:44 > 0:22:50single market may not be complete, it is the deepest marketing services
0:22:50 > 0:22:54anywhere on the globe. Can the Minister confirm that it is our
0:22:54 > 0:22:59contention that the full services sector will be included in our deep
0:22:59 > 0:23:09and special partnership?She brings her experience from the European
0:23:09 > 0:23:15Parliament, which we all value. As 80% of the UK economy is services
0:23:15 > 0:23:21based, it is vital that we incorporate provisions relating to
0:23:21 > 0:23:29services in any new arrangement with the EU.I was astonished yesterday,
0:23:29 > 0:23:35reading the National Audit Office report that the inability to hedge
0:23:35 > 0:23:39against sterling fluctuations could cost up to £5 billion for the
0:23:39 > 0:23:43equipment plan. Good the Minister advise as to what the department is
0:23:43 > 0:23:46doing to support other departments struggling with Brexit through the
0:23:46 > 0:23:52engagement with the international community?There is considerable
0:23:52 > 0:23:55engagement with the international business community. The Prime
0:23:55 > 0:23:59Minister herself there is a business advisory Council to hear directly
0:23:59 > 0:24:04from senior business leaders on key issues. In terms of cross
0:24:04 > 0:24:07departmental engagement, there is considerable work and engagement
0:24:07 > 0:24:11across all departments in Whitehall to prepare for all outcomes of these
0:24:11 > 0:24:21negotiations.We have been working closely with the Secretary of State
0:24:21 > 0:24:24for environment food and rural affairs on support for farmers. The
0:24:24 > 0:24:28government will provide the same cash total in funds for farm support
0:24:28 > 0:24:33until the end of the parliament. We continue to work closely with a
0:24:33 > 0:24:36range of stakeholders across the farming industry and beyond as well
0:24:36 > 0:24:41as the devolved administrations.EU rules on farming happy one size fits
0:24:41 > 0:24:46all. Would he agree that we can create farming policy and frameworks
0:24:46 > 0:24:53that work better for all the parts of the United Kingdom after Brexit?
0:24:53 > 0:24:57Yes, once we have left the EU, we will be able to redesign our
0:24:57 > 0:25:01agricultural policy so that farmers are competitive, productive and
0:25:01 > 0:25:06profitable and saw that our environment is protected for future
0:25:06 > 0:25:10generations. The Secretary of State for the environment elegantly set
0:25:10 > 0:25:13out flaws in the common agricultural policy and how we can do much better
0:25:13 > 0:25:21outside the EU.Can he outlined how he intends to secure subsidies for
0:25:21 > 0:25:26the average UK farm, which is classified as a small farm and how
0:25:26 > 0:25:32does he believe small farmers will be able to survive post-Brexit?We
0:25:32 > 0:25:37do believe in the contribution of small farms to the mural economy and
0:25:37 > 0:25:44he will bring forward his policy in due course.Is he able to clarify
0:25:44 > 0:25:48whether farmers will no longer be subject to the common agricultural
0:25:48 > 0:25:54policy or will our fishery industry no longer be subject to the common
0:25:54 > 0:26:01fisheries policy?He raises a very important point and I know from
0:26:01 > 0:26:06meeting fisher men and women that they are sometimes very sometimes
0:26:06 > 0:26:10very impatient to leave the common fisheries policy and rightly so. As
0:26:10 > 0:26:17a matter for negotiation and we hope to achieve clarity very soon.
0:26:17 > 0:26:25Securing favourable fishing terms will be important, what role will be
0:26:25 > 0:26:30devolved administrations play? An important role and will continue
0:26:30 > 0:26:39to engage with him. I am conscious of agricultural tariffs. It is in on
0:26:39 > 0:26:44all our interests to ensure tariff free access as we reach our special
0:26:44 > 0:26:57ship. Number eight.Remaining in the
0:26:57 > 0:27:02Customs Union would prevent the UK from striking new free trade deals
0:27:02 > 0:27:09and setting new tariffs. By leaving the Customs Union and building a new
0:27:09 > 0:27:13arrangement with the EU we can forge new trade arrangements with our
0:27:13 > 0:27:17partners around the world while maintaining as frictionless trade as
0:27:17 > 0:27:23possible in goods between the UK and EU.
0:27:23 > 0:27:28An exciting opportunity which will become available would be to
0:27:28 > 0:27:35establish a free port at Eastport. Can she confirm the Government will
0:27:35 > 0:27:40give serious consideration to this excellent idea?
0:27:40 > 0:27:50I would like to thank the honourable gentleman for welcoming the
0:27:50 > 0:28:00Secretary state -- the Secretary of State there. This it was a pleasure
0:28:00 > 0:28:06to meet some of the business representatives present at the
0:28:06 > 0:28:10speech last Friday. Teesport is an opportunity for global Britain and a
0:28:10 > 0:28:17gateway to the world, an example of forward thinking independent trade
0:28:17 > 0:28:23policy. When we leave we will have the opportunity to create our own
0:28:23 > 0:28:29policy to benefit Teesport. I hope the Freeport proposal will be one
0:28:29 > 0:28:39option explored. In Harrow we have a thriving Indian
0:28:39 > 0:28:43Gasper are desperate to encourage trade between the UK and India. Will
0:28:43 > 0:28:47she ensure they will not be held back from improving trade between
0:28:47 > 0:28:58India and the UK? I would like to pay tribute to him
0:28:58 > 0:29:04for his lifelong advocacy for the British Asian community, not least
0:29:04 > 0:29:08since the 1990s when he encouraged my mother to stand as a local
0:29:08 > 0:29:13councillor. He is to blame for me being here today!
0:29:13 > 0:29:17Leaving the EU offers us the opportunity to forge a new role for
0:29:17 > 0:29:26ourselves. The first bilateral visit outside of Europe was to India which
0:29:26 > 0:29:30is telling. It is encouraging the Indian Finance Minister visited the
0:29:30 > 0:29:37UK for the year of culture launch last year. I am optimistic about the
0:29:37 > 0:29:41opportunities leaving the Customs Union and EU presents for UK - India
0:29:41 > 0:29:52relations. HMRC wants a new declaration service
0:29:52 > 0:29:57due to go live in 2019, has it been decided to go for the fourfold
0:29:57 > 0:30:05increase in customs declarations post Brexit?
0:30:05 > 0:30:11The customs infrastructure is going through the upgrade which the
0:30:11 > 0:30:17honourable member states and it is right this is on track and on target
0:30:17 > 0:30:22and I am looking forward to the opportunity to build on our customs
0:30:22 > 0:30:27regimes where we have a world standard, setting the standard for
0:30:27 > 0:30:30the world.
0:30:33 > 0:30:39It is not for the UK to accept or reject the EU directives, this is
0:30:39 > 0:30:44their mandate for negotiations. We have our own objectives. In my
0:30:44 > 0:30:48speech I set out our position on what we would like in the
0:30:48 > 0:30:51implementation period and we look forward to continuing this
0:30:51 > 0:30:57discussion. That work has not stopped, following the declaration
0:30:57 > 0:31:05of its progress, officials have continued technical discussions. I
0:31:05 > 0:31:09will be meeting Michel Barnier to continue the process.
0:31:09 > 0:31:14For workers who arrived during the transitional period under existing
0:31:14 > 0:31:19rules what arrangement will there be to ensure workers crucial to our
0:31:19 > 0:31:25industries who don't read Tier two Visa requirements are not sent home
0:31:25 > 0:31:30at the end of the transition period? We will be discussing in detail the
0:31:30 > 0:31:37treatment of people after the departure from the union. He must
0:31:37 > 0:31:42take it as red as I have said they will be treated properly, we will
0:31:42 > 0:31:46not do anything which will undermine our economy and do everything to
0:31:46 > 0:31:53ensure the industries are supported. The secretary of state and his
0:31:53 > 0:31:57junior ministers keep saying we want a bespoke deal. When are they going
0:31:57 > 0:32:03to set out what that means? Tell us what the elements of that deal will
0:32:03 > 0:32:08be? And when are they going to cost it with its implications for the
0:32:08 > 0:32:14economy of these islands? There can be few policies that have
0:32:14 > 0:32:20been taught about more than this one, two major speeches at Lancaster
0:32:20 > 0:32:24House and Florence, two white papers, something like 15 bills
0:32:24 > 0:32:29going through this House this Parliament. This House is not
0:32:29 > 0:32:33unaware of all aspects of the bespoke deal.
0:32:33 > 0:32:37We made playing what we see as different in what we are seeking
0:32:37 > 0:32:43from other deals, the free trade agreement, we are aiming for a
0:32:43 > 0:32:48competitive and tariff free. On the customs agreement, the most
0:32:48 > 0:32:51frictionless, with a variety of proposals on that.
0:32:51 > 0:32:59The House will be clearly informed. In terms of costing, as my
0:32:59 > 0:33:03Parliamentary Secretary said on Monday, we will release all the
0:33:03 > 0:33:07information necessary once it is no longer sensitive to negotiations but
0:33:07 > 0:33:16before the House makes a decision. Number ten, Mr Speaker.I have seen
0:33:16 > 0:33:21this report and note the Secretary of State for Scotland discussed
0:33:21 > 0:33:26priorities regularly at the GMC. There is common ground between us
0:33:26 > 0:33:29such as making sure Scottish universities and businesses have
0:33:29 > 0:33:33access to the best of talent. It is disappointing this report does not
0:33:33 > 0:33:37take the threat of a second independence referendum of the
0:33:37 > 0:33:49table. The Minister will be aware... The
0:33:49 > 0:33:51difference in Scotland is the SNP Government does proper analysis and
0:33:51 > 0:34:03publishes. How many jobs have to be lost or
0:34:03 > 0:34:08under threat before this Government will realise it must back the single
0:34:08 > 0:34:16market and Customs Union? The aim is to six -- the aim is to
0:34:16 > 0:34:21seek a successful deal. The worst thing for Scottish jobs and
0:34:21 > 0:34:27businesses would be to split up our UK.
0:34:27 > 0:34:30Last week the Scotch whisky Association expressed concerns at
0:34:30 > 0:34:34the SNP policy to keep Scotland in the single market, what assurances
0:34:34 > 0:34:40can he give to my companies and constituents to make sure we tried
0:34:40 > 0:34:45to get access to the single market but also have the right do deals
0:34:45 > 0:34:52elsewhere in the world? He makes an excellent point,
0:34:52 > 0:34:57speaking up for his constituents. I met with the Association on
0:34:57 > 0:35:00occasions to discuss global opportunities and we must ensure we
0:35:00 > 0:35:01have the flexibility to take those.
0:35:08 > 0:35:13The Government has been conducting a broad programme of work on EU exit
0:35:13 > 0:35:16issues and will continue, all decisions including those relating
0:35:16 > 0:35:21to the Customs Union and automotive sector are supported by a range of
0:35:21 > 0:35:25analytical work. Do we want our partnership to include the
0:35:25 > 0:35:28automotive industry, ensuring trade is as free and frictionless as
0:35:28 > 0:35:34possible. The UK remains the second largest market for cars in Europe
0:35:34 > 0:35:40and it is in our interests to continue this partnership. The
0:35:40 > 0:35:43Vauxhall car plant in your constituency is extremely important
0:35:43 > 0:35:49and I look forward to visiting it soon.
0:35:49 > 0:35:53The plant in my constituency is fighting for survival, the parent
0:35:53 > 0:35:57company has said it is not prepared to make long-term investment until
0:35:57 > 0:36:04there is clarity on the final trading arrangements. Having heard
0:36:04 > 0:36:09this morning, I am not sure we are going to get that soon. Can he
0:36:09 > 0:36:12guarantee trading arrangements for the automotive sector will be no
0:36:12 > 0:36:18less favourable than they are now? The understanding is the Vauxhall
0:36:18 > 0:36:23decision is a commercial one taken due to challenging European market
0:36:23 > 0:36:28conditions. Vauxhall has said this decision is to safeguard the
0:36:28 > 0:36:30competitiveness of the plant. Government maintains ongoing
0:36:30 > 0:36:40dialogue with the company. Ministers have met regularly with senior
0:36:40 > 0:36:44management throughout this process and will continue to do so. As we
0:36:44 > 0:36:50move through these negotiations, moving on to economic partnership, I
0:36:50 > 0:36:54expect the honourable gentleman will find an accelerating degree of
0:36:54 > 0:37:07certainty emerges. Further to the reply about Teesport,
0:37:07 > 0:37:14would ministers be prepared to meet with me to discuss a Freeport in my
0:37:14 > 0:37:18constituency post Brexit? Of course I will meet with him to
0:37:18 > 0:37:25discuss this matter. As this conversation has gone on, misgivings
0:37:25 > 0:37:29have been expressed about Freeport and we need to make sure any
0:37:29 > 0:37:32proposal is capable of giving this country the security it needs.
0:37:32 > 0:37:44Number 12, Mr Speaker.With permission I will answer questions
0:37:44 > 0:37:4812 and 16 together. The right by Wright memorandum
0:37:48 > 0:37:51clarifies how human bites will continue to be protected in domestic
0:37:51 > 0:38:02law after the UK has exited -- writes. All substantive rights will
0:38:02 > 0:38:07continue to be protected after exit. Our assessment is in itself not
0:38:07 > 0:38:10incorporating the Charter of fundamental rights should not affect
0:38:10 > 0:38:19substantive rights for individuals. The papers leaked to Buzzfeed
0:38:19 > 0:38:25suggest deregulating an area such as the environment, and employment law,
0:38:25 > 0:38:30could be an opportunity for the UK. Is this part of the Government
0:38:30 > 0:38:33economic strategy? The garment has repeated our
0:38:33 > 0:38:40commitment to ensure the environment is improved and our commitments on
0:38:40 > 0:38:44workers' rights have been repeated time and again.
0:38:44 > 0:38:49The Brexit secretary labelled intimate revelations as crippling,
0:38:49 > 0:38:51the Foreign Secretary described them as backbreaking, the international
0:38:51 > 0:38:58trade secretary said maximum working our walls are a burden. Why is the
0:38:58 > 0:39:06Government so prepared to take its policy?
0:39:06 > 0:39:12We will ensure workers' rights are preserved and enhanced and keep pace
0:39:12 > 0:39:18with the new working environment. During the committee stage of the
0:39:18 > 0:39:23Bill, concerns were raised critical of our mental rights could be cast
0:39:23 > 0:39:28aside as we exit. If the Government is serious about raising
0:39:28 > 0:39:32environmental rights, can the Minister tell us why the Government
0:39:32 > 0:39:39has failed to come forward with an ambitious new environment Bill and
0:39:39 > 0:39:43instead is commissioning analysis suggesting Brexit could be an
0:39:43 > 0:39:46opportunity to deregulate in these areas?
0:39:46 > 0:39:50The purpose of the Withdrawal Bill was to preserve the effect of EU law
0:39:50 > 0:39:58into far as possible after exit. And not to bring forward new policy
0:39:58 > 0:40:03changes. The Secretary of State has laid out his policy and I look
0:40:03 > 0:40:09forward to the Bill. Number 13.
0:40:09 > 0:40:12The duration of the emperor meditation period should be in the
0:40:12 > 0:40:19region of two years, the commission's period -- position
0:40:19 > 0:40:28points to the same. To give people time to plan to allow an orderly
0:40:28 > 0:40:32transition for the best possible outcome for the UK.
0:40:32 > 0:40:40Could it be shorter? If I simply accept the proposal of
0:40:40 > 0:40:46the European Commission, yes.Unlike the question from the right
0:40:46 > 0:40:58honourable gentleman! The EU has made it clear EU citizens
0:40:58 > 0:41:01coming to the UK during the transition period should be eligible
0:41:01 > 0:41:05for settled status, the Prime Minister says they will not be. Is
0:41:05 > 0:41:09that a red line or is the Government willing to optimise on that?
0:41:18 > 0:41:21What I would point out to him is that in the joint report, which we
0:41:21 > 0:41:26can leaders and got agreement on in December, the European Union agreed
0:41:26 > 0:41:31that the transition date, the end date for ongoing permanent
0:41:31 > 0:41:36residents' rights, not possibilities, writes, will be is
0:41:36 > 0:41:50March 20 19. At the General affairs Council on Monday, the European
0:41:50 > 0:41:53Council agreed negotiating directives on implementing Titian
0:41:53 > 0:41:58period. We have to move quickly to begin detailed discussions on the
0:41:58 > 0:42:04implementation period. We can reach political agreement by March. There
0:42:04 > 0:42:08remain a number of areas we need to discuss to make sure the period
0:42:08 > 0:42:13operates smoothly. We look forward to progressing substantially.When
0:42:13 > 0:42:18it came to the divorce Bill, after a lot of huffing and puffing, the
0:42:18 > 0:42:22government simply signed on the dotted line. What can they tellers
0:42:22 > 0:42:27will be different in the negotiating and transition period we are
0:42:27 > 0:42:29negotiating compared to the EU guidelines which were issued this
0:42:29 > 0:42:37week?As to his opening remarks, it's amazing, given that he's
0:42:37 > 0:42:42intelligent and informed, that he doesn't differentiate between the
0:42:42 > 0:42:50100 billion demand and the 30 billion outcome. As for the next
0:42:50 > 0:42:56stage, that is a negotiation to be undertaken. The primary area for me,
0:42:56 > 0:43:03there are a variety of areas, but the biggest one is the question of
0:43:03 > 0:43:07our right to sign trade deals during the implementation period so we can
0:43:07 > 0:43:11bring them into force immediately after we leave. That is a massive
0:43:11 > 0:43:17advantage for the United Kingdom to have. Businesses in my constituency
0:43:17 > 0:43:22tell me continued membership of the single market and Customs union
0:43:22 > 0:43:26during the transition period will help them to safeguard jobs, but the
0:43:26 > 0:43:30Prime Minister ruled this out. What do you have against the employment
0:43:30 > 0:43:37of people in Bristol West.The purpose of the implentation period,
0:43:37 > 0:43:41which was asked for by just about every business organisation, is to
0:43:41 > 0:43:46make sure that they face stability in the run-up to the conclusion of
0:43:46 > 0:43:53the future relationship. That is what is going to happen. That is why
0:43:53 > 0:44:05companies and the CBI and others will conduct when we announced it.
0:44:09 > 0:44:12As we accelerate the pace of our negotiations, I gave a speech last
0:44:12 > 0:44:17Friday to lay out the terms of the implentation period for a new
0:44:17 > 0:44:20relationship. This bridge to the future will be strictly time-limited
0:44:20 > 0:44:24and will see a continuation of existing structures and rules. We
0:44:24 > 0:44:31will no longer be a member of the EU, which is a legal requirement for
0:44:31 > 0:44:35signing a treaty treaty, while still ensuring the continuity of our
0:44:35 > 0:44:42businesses. We use the period to make sure we best place to grasp the
0:44:42 > 0:44:46details of Brexit and I mean signing a new trade agreement with countries
0:44:46 > 0:44:51around the world.Given reports today of a huge gap between the UK
0:44:51 > 0:44:56and EU on how financial services will be able to be traded freely in
0:44:56 > 0:45:00the post-Brexit environment, can the Secretary of State set out exactly
0:45:00 > 0:45:06how he sees this trade operating successfully in future and exactly
0:45:06 > 0:45:10how he plans to protect the jobs of the 1.1 million people in the UK who
0:45:10 > 0:45:21work in this sector?Firstly, not only have we not yet engaged in the
0:45:21 > 0:45:25future relationship negotiation, the European Union has not yet decided
0:45:25 > 0:45:29its own negotiating guidelines. They will be laid down by the March
0:45:29 > 0:45:34council on the 22nd of March, we expect. To that end, I'm talking to
0:45:34 > 0:45:39every member state began to make sure we at the same place on this
0:45:39 > 0:45:45issue, rather than having a gap. At the end of these questions, I'm
0:45:45 > 0:45:49going to Luxembourg for specifically that issue.Can he confirm that we
0:45:49 > 0:45:54will find a way during the implentation period to address the
0:45:54 > 0:45:57consequences of any EU legislation deemed contrary to our national
0:45:57 > 0:46:03interest?The duration of the implentation period should be around
0:46:03 > 0:46:08two years. Normally when UK is no longer a member of the EU can we
0:46:08 > 0:46:12take advantage of status. We will negotiate our own trade agreements
0:46:12 > 0:46:16but not bring them into effect until after the implentation period has
0:46:16 > 0:46:20concluded. For this period, we will have a process for discussing laws
0:46:20 > 0:46:29that might be brought in on which we've not had our say.There have
0:46:29 > 0:46:34been lots of questions this week about the leaked EU exit analysis
0:46:34 > 0:46:38final briefings, but this is the first chance I've had to ask the
0:46:38 > 0:46:43Secretary of State directly, so I will choose my words carefully. Can
0:46:43 > 0:46:49he confirm when he first knew that economic modelling work on Brexit
0:46:49 > 0:46:55scenarios was being undertaken across Whitehall?He doesn't have to
0:46:55 > 0:47:04ask me, he should read the book. In addressing the select committee on
0:47:04 > 0:47:10the 6th of December last year, I said in terms, we will at some
0:47:10 > 0:47:15stage, and some of this has been initiated, do the best we can to
0:47:15 > 0:47:18quantify the effect of different negotiating outcomes as we come up
0:47:18 > 0:47:23to them. Bearing mind, we have not started phase two yet. We will try
0:47:23 > 0:47:31to assess the effect of various outcomes. We will do that a little
0:47:31 > 0:47:35closer to the negotiating timetable. I say that because I read with
0:47:35 > 0:47:41interest the Hansard reports this morning, reading about myself being
0:47:41 > 0:47:45introduced. I thought I should tell the house that I told the select
0:47:45 > 0:47:52committee this work was on the way last December.I think it follows
0:47:52 > 0:47:56that in December, the Secretary of State knew that this modelling was
0:47:56 > 0:48:02going on. Can he confirm when he was first talked through the economic
0:48:02 > 0:48:06modelling of the Brexit scenarios by his department? Not when he told
0:48:06 > 0:48:15others, but when he was talked through.One of the things that he's
0:48:15 > 0:48:20trying to pretend is that somehow my colleagues have been critical of the
0:48:20 > 0:48:27civil service doing its job, because the outcome is as yet a work in
0:48:27 > 0:48:33progress. That is what it is, a work in progress. I say that because we
0:48:33 > 0:48:39are trying to do something which is incredibly difficult, something
0:48:39 > 0:48:43which every institution that is astride it has failed. They forecast
0:48:43 > 0:48:49that has been made about the period post-referendum has been wrong. As I
0:48:49 > 0:48:52told the select committee, the Bank of England, the best forecasting
0:48:52 > 0:48:58organisation in the business, forecast for 2017 a reduction in
0:48:58 > 0:49:05exports. There was a growth by 3%. A reduction by 2%, it grew by 1%. A
0:49:05 > 0:49:12reduction in housing investment, a flat employment growth and growth of
0:49:12 > 0:49:170.5%. What has been going on has been an attempt to find a way of
0:49:17 > 0:49:26getting a better outcome. And in those terms, I talked to my own
0:49:26 > 0:49:34department and the cross departmental group in early January.
0:49:34 > 0:49:38The undersea oil and gas pipeline that Germany intends to build
0:49:38 > 0:49:42directly to Russia has been condemned by the American Secretary
0:49:42 > 0:49:46of State as a threat to the security of countries in Central and Eastern
0:49:46 > 0:49:52Europe. Does the Minister agree with that sentiment?This is an important
0:49:52 > 0:49:58issue and we need to make sure that Europe continues to protect its
0:49:58 > 0:50:02security and diversity of supply. We'll continue to work with the
0:50:02 > 0:50:09colleague in those departments on it.UK civil aerospace companies are
0:50:09 > 0:50:13leading the world in the development of future technologies, but
0:50:13 > 0:50:17everyone, from the chief executive of a bus, to the Unites frets at
0:50:17 > 0:50:24Rolls-Royce, say that a hard exit threatens that success. Why isn't
0:50:24 > 0:50:27continued membership of the customs union and the single market on the
0:50:27 > 0:50:34table to protect the UK's engineering manufacturing sector?As
0:50:34 > 0:50:37a chartered aerospace engineer, this is a subject close to my heart.
0:50:37 > 0:50:40Aviation is crucial to the UK economy and we are committed to
0:50:40 > 0:50:46getting the best deal possible. We are focused on getting the right
0:50:46 > 0:50:49arrangement so that our industries can continue to thrive, so that
0:50:49 > 0:50:52passengers and the industry can have opportunity, choice and be
0:50:52 > 0:50:57profitable. We will seek the right customs arrangements between us to
0:50:57 > 0:51:00make sure trade is free and frictionless and that they are able
0:51:00 > 0:51:06to succeed.Does he agree with me that, while the manner of our
0:51:06 > 0:51:12leaving the EU is Mark -- is rightly a matter for debate, the fact that
0:51:12 > 0:51:17we are leaving the EU was decided beyond doubt in June 2016 by the
0:51:17 > 0:51:22British people?I am happy to reassure him on his point. The
0:51:22 > 0:51:27British people voted to leave the European Union. 17.5 million of them
0:51:27 > 0:51:33in the biggest mandate in his silly and committed to respecting the
0:51:33 > 0:51:35result of that referendum. The government is and do take the
0:51:35 > 0:51:40analysis to make sure we get the best for British people in our
0:51:40 > 0:51:44negotiations. Whichever outcome we choose and negotiate, it will
0:51:44 > 0:51:54involve leaving the EU and respecting that democratic mandate.
0:51:54 > 0:51:57The report commissioned by the Mayor of London found that a hard Brexit
0:51:57 > 0:52:04will lead to the loss of 56,500 more jobs in London alone and if the UK
0:52:04 > 0:52:08remains in the single market and Customs union. Does he agree that
0:52:08 > 0:52:11this is clear evidence that a hard Brexit would be catastrophic for
0:52:11 > 0:52:19jobs?No, I don't. One of the great difficulties in these forecasts is
0:52:19 > 0:52:23they have proven entirely wrong in every town so far. This is not just
0:52:23 > 0:52:28the view of a politician. The smartest and most innovative
0:52:28 > 0:52:33economist in the country is probably the governor of the Bank of England
0:52:33 > 0:52:37to refer to these forecasts as having faced a microfiche moment. In
0:52:37 > 0:52:42other words, they have to find out if they've work. It may be in
0:52:42 > 0:52:48opinion, but it's not evidence.Over the last 45 years, British taxpayers
0:52:48 > 0:52:51have had far too much of their money taken from them to go to the EU. And
0:52:51 > 0:53:01that we are leaving, can he give us an idea of our share of the assets
0:53:01 > 0:53:06and is he negotiating to get it all back?She picks an important point.
0:53:06 > 0:53:10This was a component of the negotiation which brought the public
0:53:10 > 0:53:14claim down from 100 billion down to 35 billion. Part of that was offset
0:53:14 > 0:53:23by assets.The chemicals industry is the largest employer in the
0:53:23 > 0:53:29Grangemouth Ely of my constituency, an industry that explores a lot of
0:53:29 > 0:53:35its goods within the EU. Prime ministers tell us what the EU exit
0:53:35 > 0:53:41analysis projects with the sector? We have met with the chemicals
0:53:41 > 0:53:46industry on a number of occasions. On the last occasion, we had quite
0:53:46 > 0:53:49constructive conversations, which ended positively. We will make sure
0:53:49 > 0:53:54we carry through the positions we've set out, particularly in relation to
0:53:54 > 0:53:57goods on the markets, and that we hope to preserve continued
0:53:57 > 0:54:02registration of chemicals. We will continue to make sure our deep and
0:54:02 > 0:54:06special partnership covers the chemicals industry so that they can
0:54:06 > 0:54:11continue to flourish.Will the Minister confirm to this house that
0:54:11 > 0:54:16it is possible for non-EU countries to access only three of the single
0:54:16 > 0:54:20markets, specifically free movement of goods, capital and services, but
0:54:20 > 0:54:26are not required to accept freedom of movement, as can be seen by the
0:54:26 > 0:54:28association agreement countries. Is this an arrangement currently being
0:54:28 > 0:54:34looked at the Department?She makes a good point. Trade continues all
0:54:34 > 0:54:37round the world on a basis which is free and there, particularly under
0:54:37 > 0:54:43free trade agreements. It is our expectation and intention to secure
0:54:43 > 0:54:46a free-trade agreement of unprecedented scope and ambition,
0:54:46 > 0:54:53which should meet just the kind of criteria she sets out.The
0:54:53 > 0:54:56parliamentary undersecretary told the house yesterday that the
0:54:56 > 0:55:00documents I hope very sure that will be handed over to the select
0:55:00 > 0:55:04committee to not yet reflect the government policy approaches.
0:55:04 > 0:55:08"Secretary Of State has just claimed from the dispatch box, that everyone
0:55:08 > 0:55:11knows the government position, can he spent my loss of analysis has
0:55:11 > 0:55:15been done of the options the government does not want, but
0:55:15 > 0:55:22apparently no analysis yet of the option the government does want.The
0:55:22 > 0:55:29government cannot control the timing of leaks. This is a work in process,
0:55:29 > 0:55:33a preliminary analysis which does not yet reflect government policy.
0:55:33 > 0:55:37Once the analysis has been carried through, I'm quite sure that it will
0:55:37 > 0:55:47do.
0:55:51 > 0:55:56He almost yells from a sedentary position his sympathy for the former
0:55:56 > 0:56:00Chancellor of the extra cover. I'm sure he will be able to bear not
0:56:00 > 0:56:03been mentioned by the representatives of the Treasury
0:56:03 > 0:56:10bench.Will my honourable friend the Minister confirm that he heard from
0:56:10 > 0:56:14Charles Grant that officials in the Treasury have deliberately developed
0:56:14 > 0:56:20a model to show that all options other than staying in the customs
0:56:20 > 0:56:25union were bad and that officials intended uses to influence policy?
0:56:25 > 0:56:31If this is correct, does he share my views that goes the spirit of
0:56:31 > 0:56:40reforms that and then our civil service.
0:56:40 > 0:56:45I am sorry to say that my honourable friend's account is essentially
0:56:45 > 0:56:49correct. At the time I considered it implausible because my direct
0:56:49 > 0:56:53experience is that civil servants are extraordinarily careful to
0:56:53 > 0:56:57uphold the impartiality of the civil service. I think we must proceed
0:56:57 > 0:57:01with great caution in this matter, but I have heard him raise this
0:57:01 > 0:57:07issue. I think we need to be very careful not take this forward in an
0:57:07 > 0:57:11inappropriate way, but he has reminded me of something I heard. I
0:57:11 > 0:57:13think it would be quite extraordinary if it turned out such
0:57:13 > 0:57:23a thing happened because... I didn't say it was correct, the account that
0:57:23 > 0:57:30was put to me, Mr Speaker, is correct. It was put to me, I
0:57:30 > 0:57:34considered it an extraordinary allegation, I still consider it an
0:57:34 > 0:57:40extraordinary allegation, and I think we must... I said it was
0:57:40 > 0:57:44correct... Mr Speaker, I said it was correct that the allegation was put
0:57:44 > 0:57:49to me, I did not in any way seek to confirm the truth of it, but what I
0:57:49 > 0:57:53would say is that we need to proceed with great caution because it is
0:57:53 > 0:57:57essential that we continue to uphold and support the impartiality of the
0:57:57 > 0:58:07civil service.Every day, literally hundreds of tracks crisscross the
0:58:07 > 0:58:13channel carrying vital components for the highly integrated supply
0:58:13 > 0:58:16chain for the British car industry. What assessment has the Minister
0:58:16 > 0:58:25made of the impact that that travel on customs, tariffs and extra
0:58:25 > 0:58:30bureaucracy if we come out of the customs union?We are seeking a
0:58:30 > 0:58:36frictionless access to the single market for our automotive industry.
0:58:36 > 0:58:45We want to continue to feel the benefits.Could the minister
0:58:45 > 0:58:49reassure me that the upcoming negotiations on future migration
0:58:49 > 0:58:54arrangements with the EU will prioritise the needs of UK science
0:58:54 > 0:58:59and research, allowing a two-way flow of talent which is vital for
0:58:59 > 0:59:03our top universities, such as York university in my constituency?I am
0:59:03 > 0:59:09very happy to give that we have been having interesting negotiations with
0:59:09 > 0:59:13the science sector and we want to make sure the UK can continue to
0:59:13 > 0:59:18attract the brightest and the best from around the world.I want to
0:59:18 > 0:59:20hear from the two colleagues who have not contributed to these
0:59:20 > 0:59:29exchanges.On the 11th of January, Lord Callaghan visited Bristol and
0:59:29 > 0:59:33he made a promise to the constituents in my constituency that
0:59:33 > 0:59:36there would be more jobs after Brexit. Was he briefed by the
0:59:36 > 0:59:40Department at that point on the true state of the modelling analysis when
0:59:40 > 0:59:49he made that promise to those people?Let me say this, as I told
0:59:49 > 0:59:53the House earlier, every forecasting model on the performance of the
0:59:53 > 1:00:01British economy post the referendum by every major organisation, the
1:00:01 > 1:00:04banks, the government organisations and international organisations, has
1:00:04 > 1:00:09proven wrong. One of the ways it has been proven wrong is because
1:00:09 > 1:00:13employment has grown in this country to record levels today. We will be
1:00:13 > 1:00:16seeking to do the best we can to ensure that growth record is
1:00:16 > 1:00:25maintained.If the second enquiry is a single sentence of fewer than 20
1:00:25 > 1:00:31years -- words, I will hear it, if it isn't, I want.Can my right
1:00:31 > 1:00:35honourable friend confirmed that we will be able to implement decisions
1:00:35 > 1:00:38during the transition period and not wait until the end to implement
1:00:38 > 1:00:43everything that is agreed?For example, our proposing to put in
1:00:43 > 1:00:49place a registration scheme and so on, and also we will be able to sign
1:00:49 > 1:00:53trade deals but not put them into force.How is the government working
1:00:53 > 1:00:57with the UK steel industry to make sure that it prospers post Brexit?
1:00:57 > 1:01:04We have had, my department alone has had meetings with 350 companies, not
1:01:04 > 1:01:11all in steel, obviously, and we have a regular meeting between the
1:01:11 > 1:01:14Chancellor, the Business Secretary and myself, and leading