MEP Claude Moraes (S&D, UK) has added his voice to those who have poured cold water on claims that the UK will be at the “front of the queue” for a trade deal with the US soon after it exits the EU.
The remarks were made by John Bolton, a close aide to President Trump, during a trip to London last week.
RELATED CONTENT
Moraes countered by saying, “In the European Parliament, where there has been an in depth and realistic understanding of trade deals, it was always known that a trade deal between the UK and US, whatever John Bolton or Donald Trump says, lies very much in the hands of US States and with Congress.”
“In the European Parliament […] it was always known that a trade deal between the UK and US, whatever John Bolton or Donald Trump says, lies very much in the hands of US States and with Congress” Claude Moraes (S&D, UK)
“It is no surprise that the latter – Congress – has placed a premium on the Good Friday agreement in which they have invested.”
“For this and other reasons, such as access to our key services like the NHS, any trade deal with US is loaded with difficulty”.
SNP MEP Alyn Smith (Greens/EFA, UK) addressed the same issue, telling this website, "It is nothing short of terrifying that the worst elements of the Trump Administration as aiding and abetting the active deception of the people of the UK that there are somehow super special trade deals just around the corner.”
“These are people you count your fingers after you shake their hand. It is lies, pure and simple, and nobody nowhere is going to make a special case for the UK.”
“Any US trade deal needs the approval of both houses of the US Congress and it is clear that they will put their interests in their relations with the EU, and indeed the interest of peace in Ireland, first.”
“It is lies, pure and simple, and nobody nowhere is going to make a special case for the UK” Alyn Smith (Greens/EFA, UK)
"The Brexiters are still up to their old tricks, pretending that there is nothing to be lost from losing the EU, and lots to be gained, yet three years after the vote they are still dealing in generalities while the hard facts of what could be lost in leaving the EU become clearer and clearer.”
Smith, an ardent Remainer, added, "Scotland's position is clear - we have a close relationship with the US and North America, but our closest relationship is with our European friends and neighbours.”
“We voted to remain in the EU not just out of sentiment but because it is a proven and tested best option where the Brexiters are still dealing in lies."