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Minister chases speedy UK trade deal

Trade Minister Simon Birmingham says Australia wants to quickly reach a trade deal with the UK after it exits the European Union.

Australia is hoping to set a speed record for trade deals in reaching a new arrangement with the UK after it leaves the European Union.

Trade Minister Simon Birmingham has told British businesspeople in London he wants the new arrangements in place as soon as possible after Brexit.

"Our message remains the same as since the referendum result was announced - the second Britain is ready, Australia stands ready to launch formal negotiations for an Australia-UK free trade agreement," he told the Australia-UK Chamber of Commerce breakfast in London on Monday.

"We should show the world how quickly yet effectively it can be negotiated, seeking to conclude and sign as rapidly as we can after March 29, and entry into force occurring as soon as possible thereafter."

Senator Birmingham sees Brexit as an opportunity for the two nations to reinvigorate their relationship.

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The new trade deal should be ambitious, comprehensive, modern and an example of open, liberalised markets, he told the business group.

"All of this economic and trade policy complements the very important relationship we share, because we all know that Australians don't just visit the UK - they study, work and build lives here, just as the same applies in reverse," he said.

Australia launched negotiations for a trade deal with the EU in June, but this will not include the UK once it leaves the union.

Senator Birmingham will meet EU trade commissioners for further negotiations in Brussels on Tuesday, and speak about the progress on that deal at a think tank event in the European capital.

He is also visiting the United Arab Emirates, attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, and the United States for the annual G'Day USA event this week to discuss Australia's trade and economic interests.


2 min read

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Source: AAP



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