Parliamentary Search

Written question asked by Chi Onwurah (Labour) on Monday, 23 February 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 26 February 2026 (named day). It was answered by Chris Elmore (Labour) on Tuesday, 3 March 2026 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Africa: Bananas

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what step she is taking with his African counterparts to help ensure that women in the West and Central African banana trade are supported and employed.

Answer

The UK's Economic Partnership Agreements and Developing Countries Trading Scheme provide West and Central African partners with preferential access to the UK market, supporting growth, employment, and development of resilient agricultural supply chains. This preferential access has enabled West African banana‑exporting countries, including Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire, to strengthen their position in the UK market, underpinning rural livelihoods in sectors where women play a significant role.

We have also supported the African Continental Free Trade Agreement and worked with TradeMark Africa to strengthen trade corridors on the continent, including tackling the barriers that women face when engaging in cross‑border trade.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
114832
Session
2024-26
Grouped for answer
Yes
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Conditions of employment Africa Women Human rights Bananas Foreign trade
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk