Quote:
Originally Posted by Chris
We are a massive export market for several European economies (chief among them, Germany) and we are in a very good position to negotiate terms of access that are mutually beneficial to us and the EU. And, once un-shackled from the need to wait for the EU to negotiate trade deals for us, we can get to the important business of dealing with the great emerging economies of the world on our own terms..
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Well also their terms. Trade deals aren't symmetrical. Governments put in exemptions, rules and other caveats to protect their interests where they can and so what we can get depends on our strength at the table. For example while a trade deal with America will be in both our interests the disparity between the size of the markets and economies means we need it more. Any agreement is far more likely to be lopsided towards them than towards us.
Negotiating with the EU takes longer but is a stronger entity with a bigger market to offer prospective partners.
The idea we're going to sign great deals in the national interest post-Brexit assumes a far more open world than actually exists.