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Defeat of Trade Bill amendment 'robs ordinary people of representation'

An amendment to the Trade Bill proposed by Conservative backbenchers, which would have given Parliament a vote on any new trade deals negotiated by the UK government, was voted down in the Commons last night.

Responding to the vote, Best for Britain CEO Naomi Smith said:

“This amendment should not have been opposed by a government that wants us to uphold democracy and take back control.

"As is the case in other western democracies like the USA, Canada and Australia, trade deals are a matter for the whole legislature to ratify, not just the executive.

“Not allowing Parliament a voice on our trade deals around the world robs ordinary people of their representation in these matters and shows contempt for democracy.”