UK accession to CPTPP: Lords launch inquiry on negotiations

The Committee will scrutinise ongoing negotiations, as the Government has expressed its intention to make pursing accession to the agreement between 11 countries a key part of its trade negotiations programme. The Committee therefore welcome submissions of written evidence by 12 March 2021. This date may change and the call for evidence revised depending on the progress of negotiations.

Areas of interest:

The Committee welcome broad submissions on the CPTPP, from a diverse range of perspectives to ensure effective scrutiny. The inquiry will focus at first on some key areas that have been raised as priority areas by the UK Government and areas that experts and stakeholders have noted may have major impacts on the UK. This includes agriculture and food, regulations and standards, professional services, digital trade, investment, intellectual property and environmental protections.

Additionally, the Committee are seeking evidence on the different impacts accession could have within the UK and how different areas, regions and nations might either benefit from the deal or miss out.

Lord Goldsmith QC, Chair of the International Agreements Sub-Committee, said:

“Following on from the UK-Japan agreement, the Government has made clear that accession to the CPTPP will be another key priority and we understand that the UK will soon formally notify members of its intent to join.

“The CPTPP is an established partnership, featuring 11 important economic powers across the Trans-Pacific region. It is important our Committee focus on scrutinising the Government’s aims and objectives, any exceptions and modifications it may be seeking, as well as the progress of negotiations, and the possible impacts of joining the partnership for people and businesses across the UK.”