Release: Taxpayers celebrate UK-Australia free trade negotiations

Release: Taxpayers celebrate UK-Australia free trade negotiations

The Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance today celebrated the beginning of free trade negotiations between the Australian and UK governments, just announced. The governments expect to reach a free trade agreement by the beginning of 2021.

“A free trade agreement between Australia and the UK will dramatically increase Australia’s ability to recover from the economic downturn caused by COVID-19,” said ATA Policy Director, Emilie Dye. “I am encouraged to see our nation move toward strong trade relationships with a nation we trust instead of sinking into problematic protectionism.”

“The pandemic revealed Australia’s dangerous dependence on China for basic necessities. The supply chain broke down in the heat of the crisis and many Australians feared they would not be able to stock basic necessities. By diversifying our free trade partnerships Australia can safeguard against similar failures happening again.”

“A free trade agreement with the UK would involve more than merely a transfer of vegemite for marmite. It would mean businesses could cheaply import top quality goods at a lower price allowing them to spend more money hiring Australians, and to sell cheaper better quality products to Australian people.

“I look forward to seeing the influx of money into the Australian economy as our British friends purchase and enjoy our products.” 

“If Australia is to ever have a strong local economy, we need more solid trade relationships like the one we are discussing with the UK. Sitting down at the negotiating table with the UK is just the first step to a full economic recovery.”

The Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance recently released a five point policy proposal for a post COVID-19 Australia. Point four of our plan is boosting the domestic economy by actively engaging in the global market instead of shying away from it.

Find the full report here.