Questions to the Minister for International Relations and the Welsh Language

QNR – in the Senedd on 1 July 2020.

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Photo of John Griffiths John Griffiths Labour

(Translated) What aspects of Wales’s international relations may be strengthened as a result of the experience of Covid-19?

Photo of Baroness Mair Eluned Morgan Baroness Mair Eluned Morgan Labour

I am reviewing how we deliver the international strategy in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and will be producing a series of action plans during the autumn. These will set out how we can strengthen our international relationships, including through our priority countries and regions and our work in Africa.

Photo of Llyr Gruffydd Llyr Gruffydd Plaid Cymru

(Translated) What steps will the Minister take to protect the interests of Welsh businesses in any international trade deals after the end of the transition period with the European Union?

Photo of Baroness Mair Eluned Morgan Baroness Mair Eluned Morgan Labour

(Translated)

I and my officials are working closely with the Department for International Trade to ensure that the UK Government represents the interests of Welsh businesses and consumers in negotiations. The ministerial forum for trade has met twice and I have regular contact with Greg Hands, the Minister of State for Trade Policy.

Photo of Huw Irranca-Davies Huw Irranca-Davies Labour

(Translated) What assessment has the Minister made of any risks to consumers and producers in Wales resulting from a UK/US trade deal?

Photo of Baroness Mair Eluned Morgan Baroness Mair Eluned Morgan Labour

We continually assess the potential risks including through the Cabinet Sub-committee on European Transition and Trade. As a result of our initial assessment we have been consistently clear that any deal with the USA must not result in undermining environmental standards and putting our producers and consumers at risk.

Photo of Mr Neil Hamilton Mr Neil Hamilton UKIP

(Translated) Will the Minister provide an update on the discussions held with the UK Government on promoting international trade as part of the Brexit process?

Photo of Baroness Mair Eluned Morgan Baroness Mair Eluned Morgan Labour

I am in regular contact with the Minister of State for Trade Policy, Greg Hands. We, the Department for International Trade and Devolved Administrations Ministers, have also met twice now through the new formal ministerial forum for trade. The third meeting is due to take place imminently.