Kerry McCarthy Labour MP for Bristol East
This week I asked the Trade Secretary about reports that Australian beef production is linked to deforestation.
Australia is the only developed nation on WWF UK’s list of deforestation hotspots, yet the Government has rushed into a trade agreement with Australia and given into pressure to remove sections referencing climate change.
Promoting imports of Australian beef linked to destructive environmental practices will hurt UK farmers and the planet. It is vital that we use trade negotiations to enhance environmental standards, not undercut them – and strong provisions to stamp out deforestation should be a key part of this.
Read: Australian beef linked to deforestation could end up part of post-Brexit trade deal
