Senior Labour figures are pushing for MPs to have a decisive say on any forthcoming trade agreement between the UK and the US, arguing the deal’s potential impact warrants parliamentary scrutiny.
Emily Thornberry, chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, and Liam Byrne, head of the Business and Trade Committee, have called for a Commons vote on the pact currently being negotiated with Donald Trump’s administration. The government hopes to secure exemptions from punishing US tariffs on key British exports, including cars and pharmaceuticals.
However, concerns have been raised over potential concessions, such as reducing the digital services tax on American tech giants and revisiting online safety regulations. Byrne warned the deal could influence domestic policy and legislation, stressing that its “strategic consequence” demands democratic oversight.
Thornberry echoed this, stating that post-Brexit trade agreements some with profound national implications currently bypass parliamentary approval, creating a “huge hole in our democratic system.”
The Liberal Democrats have joined the demand, with leader Ed Davey accusing Trump of being an “unreliable partner” and cautioning against a rushed deal that could disadvantage the UK.
Reports suggest the US may also pressure Britain to limit economic ties with China, complicating the negotiations. Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds is scheduled to visit Beijing soon to revive stalled trade talks, following a recent trip by Minister Douglas Alexander.
The Lib Dems have further urged ministers to suspend official visits to China after MP Wera Hobhouse was denied entry to Hong Kong last week.
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