TTIP – the free trade deal being negotiated between the United States and the European Union – is something that I believe will be beneficial to Britain in increasing trade, creating jobs and boosting the economy. I have outlined below the reasons for which I support TTIP, and hope they both dispel the myths and illustrate the benefits of the initiative.
-
- Removing trade barriers with the US. TTIP aims to remove trade barriers in a wide range of economic sectors so that it is easier for the EU and US to trade in goods and services, giving a much-needed boost to British businesses that sell those goods and services overseas.
-
- Boosting growth. Research suggests TTIP could boost the UK economy by up to £100 billion over a ten-year period – helping to create jobs and security for hardworking taxpayers in Britain.
-
- TTIP does not require us, the USA or any other country to open up their national health systems to private providers. While I appreciate the concern raised over such an important issue, these accusations of privatisation are unfounded. As the EU, negotiators on both sides, and the government have made clear, TTIP will not affect how public services are paid for. Decisions about NHS care will remain in the hands of local doctors, who will continue to act in the best interests of patients. The NHS is something to be valued and protected – and decisions about how NHS services are provided will not be affected.
-
- The agreement will help patients get the most effective new treatments. We want patients to be able to benefit from the very latest diagnostic devices and drugs. The US is a world leader in medical technologies and this agreement will help patients get access to those treatments on the NHS faster.
-
- The Government has been clear that there is a strong public and Parliamentary interest in TTIP and that is why we have made sure Parliament has been engaged in the TTIP negotiations. TTIP has been debated in Parliament twice, investigated in Select Committees and the public and Parliament will have the opportunity to scrutinise the proposals as the negotiations carry on.
It is worth noting that TTIP does not require us, the USA or any other country to open up their national health systems to private providers. To me and the Government these accusations of privatisation are unfounded scaremongering and thus I remain welcoming to TTIP.