Reacting to the Government rejection of scrutiny amendments to the Trade Bill, Liberal Democrat Trade spokesperson Sarah Olney MP said: “The British public have the right to be represented in the negotiation of new trade deals and that means Parliament having its say. It is outrageous that the Government has refused, once again, to back Parliamentary scrutiny in the Trade Bill.
“Whether its safeguarding environmental regulations, protecting human rights or maintaining food standards, we have a duty as representatives of the public to scrutinise and vote on the detail of any future trade deal. The Conservatives have voted to ensure that all MPs will be silenced on all future trade deals.
“Liberal Democrats will continue the fight to hold this Government to account. It is vital MPs have their say on any future trade deals.”