Trade Deal Unleashes New Global Britain

Britain celebrated a “fantastic” Brexit boost after securing a trade deal with Australia yesterday.

- Macer Hall

Boris Johnson sealed an agreement in principle for zero-tariff, zero-quota commerce with Australian premier Scott Morrison in talks at Downing Street.

It will be the first trade deal negotiated from scratch since the UK regained control of trade policy by leaving the EU.

And the deal, set to boost UK firms by £1billion a year, will unleash the full power of global Britain, the PM insisted.

Mr Johnson said: “Today marks a new dawn in the UK’s relationship with Australia, underpinned by our shared history and common values.

“Our new free-trade agreement opens fantastic opportunities for British businesses and consumers, as well as young people wanting the chance to work and live on the other side of the world. This is global Britain at its best – looking outwards and striking deals that deepen our alliances and help ensure every part of the country builds back better from the pandemic.

“By seizing the vast opportunities of Brexit to drive our economic recovery with a tariff-free deal that will boost industries that employ 3.5 million across the country.

“Today’s deal will create incredible opportunities for British businesses and consumers.

“This is just the start of the world of opportunities we are grasping as an independent trading nation.

“We are already making excellent progress towards striking more tailored trade deals with like-minded allies across the globe.

“And today’s deal paves the way for us to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a £9trillion free trade area of some of the world’s largest and most dynamic economies.

“It will be good news for British car manufacturers, for British services, for British financial services.