The
UK government says it will ensure the NHS is not ‘for sale’ as negotiating objectives for the upcoming trade talks with the
United States were outlined.
Boris Johnson pledged to “drive a hard bargain” as the the government said it wants to open up opportunities for
British businesses and investors while also protecting healthcare via the desired free trade agreement.
It added it remains committed to keeping the NHS universal and free at the point of use, something which the prime minister was pushed on time after time during the general election.
The British team also wants to guarantee high standards and protections for British consumers and workers, including on animal welfare.
The prime minister said: “We have the best negotiators in the business and of course, we’re going to drive a hard bargain to boost British industry.
“Trading Scottish smoked salmon for Stetson hats, we will deliver lower prices and more choice for our shoppers.
“Most importantly, this transatlantic trade deal will reflect the unique closeness of our two great nations.”
The comments come as ministers prepare to publish its negotiation mandate with the US on Monday.
The talks will take place in parallel alongside the bartering with the
European Union over a post-Brexit relationship.
Downing Street has been urged by trade union leaders not to “cosy up” to US president
Donald Trump during the talks, calling on the PM to block any US manoeuvring to lower food standards.
Ministers have repeatedly faced demands to rule out chlorinated chicken and hormone-treated beef being imported from the US in any deal, with animal welfare and environmental concerns raised.
The Department for International Trade (DIT) said it expects manufacturers of ceramics, cars, food and drink, and professional services to be among the British industries to benefit the most from tariff-free access to the US market.
Crawford Falconer, DIT’s chief trade negotiation adviser and formerly New Zealand’s chief negotiator, will oversee talks on the UK side.
Negotiating rounds will alternate between the UK and US.
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss said: “Striking ambitious free trade agreements with our partners around the world is one of the key opportunities of
Britain becoming an independent trading nation once again.
“This deal with our biggest single trading partner will cut red tape for our small businesses, cut
tariffs for our great products from dairy to cars and increase growth in all four nations.”
Following Britain’s divorce from
Brussels in January, it is now free to strike global trade deals.
Foreign Office Minister Wendy Morton was dispatched to Uruguay and
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