MP Neil Hudson told Parliament that animal welfare must be at the highest standards in future trade deals.
Dr Hudson, who represents Penrith and the Border, spoke in the debate on the Trade Bill in the House of Commons as MPs were considering Lords amendments.
Dr Hudson voted against his Government for amendments to increase Parliamentary scrutiny and uphold the UK’s high animal welfare and food standards in future trade deals, something that he has been steadfast on since his election in December 2019.
The amendments failed to pass without Government support.
Dr Hudson said: “I welcome this Trade Bill and believe that it is vitally important for us as a country as we move forward as an independent trading nation and as we navigate through the turbulent economic situation that we face as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
“I was however disappointed that the Lords amendments on upholding animal welfare, food production and environmental standards and increasing Parliamentary scrutiny of deals were voted down, but I do welcome the Government’s commitment to strengthening scrutiny through the Trade and Agriculture Commission.
“I truly believe that we have the potential to have an outward looking, ethical, progressive Trade policy in the UK and that our Government has the appetite to bring this into being.
“I will continue to stand up for the farmers of Penrith and the Border, across Cumbria and the wider UK who produce great food to the highest standards.
“Maintaining our stance on high standards in areas such as animal health and welfare, farming and food production are pivotal as we move forward with trade deals.”
