No EU trade benefits, says Civitas report

Paul Nuttall

A report showing Britain has not benefited from 'insider trade advantages' with other European countries through EU membership has been highlighted by MEP Paul Nuttall.

The document, produced by the social policy think tank Civitas, says that trade with fellow EU nations makes up no more of the UK's trade with all top economies now than it did when it first joined the EEC in 1973.

"And it also questions the benefit of collectively negotiated EU free trade deals," said Mr Nuttall, UKIP deputy leader.

"This kicks into touch claims we hear on a daily basis from the other three main political parties that we benefit from being tied to Brussels in terms of trade.

"We would be so much better off out of the EU and able to make our own free trade deals with other countries, and not just on the continent but all over the world, particularly the Commonwealth countries," he said.

"We in UKIP have long argued that it is rubbish to say we would lose out if we leave the EU. And this report by this respected body backs up our case.

"The report concludes that 'the evidence presented contradicts again and again those who wish to claim that the UK has enjoyed insider advantages in the single market.' We have always disputed that it brought such advantages and now feel vindicated," said Mr Nuttall, Euro-MP for the North West.