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Diplomatic Service: Trade Promotion

Asked by Priti PatelConservativeForeign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeTabled Answered 27 March 2025UIN 40461

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to his speech to the British Chamber of Commerce on 20 March 2025, if he will make an estimate of the potential impact of each of the policies announced in that speech on economic growth.

Answered by Catherine West

The FCDO's approach to driving growth is focusing on the EU, the US and China, and a range of other economically important markets, such as India and Japan. Our Heads of Mission have begun producing Strategic Economic Growth Plans, identifying top opportunities and key deliverables across the Industrial Strategy's growth-driving sectors. Given trade and commercial sensitivities, these plans will not be published. The programme of domestic roadshows, the Lancaster House Business Engagement Series, and the Diplomatic Placement Programme are currently under development. The FCDO is finalising a workforce strategy for the next Spending Review period. This will ensure that resource and capability prioritises the Government's Missions with a clearer focus on accountability and delivery.

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