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Written question asked by Adam Jogee (Labour) on Monday, 8 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 10 June 2026. It was answered by Chris Bryant (Labour) on Friday, 12 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Business and Trade.

Economic Growth and Trade: Commonwealth

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what discussions he has had with his Cabinet colleagues about the potential merits of a Commonwealth first approach to a) trade and b) economic growth.

Answer

The UK’s Trade Strategy sets out the Government’s approach to maximising trade opportunities in support of growth and economic security.

The UK already has formal trade arrangements with the vast majority of Commonwealth members. This includes through FTAs such as Australia, New Zealand and India, membership of the CPTPP, Economic Partnership Agreements and the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme.

The UK supplements this through direct funding, including on developing a Commonwealth Standards Network, facilitating investment for climate positive businesses and supporting the integration and participation of Small States and Developing Countries in the global trading system.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
7671
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Commonwealth Economic growth Trade
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk