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<p>It is in everyone’s interests to secure a good deal with the European Union and
that is exactly what we are committed to do. The Government recognises the concerns
of stakeholders and is determined to get the best deal for the UK in our negotiations
to leave the EU, including for our globally recognised sheep meat.</p><p> </p><p>As
a responsible Government it is our duty to prepare for every eventuality, including
that of no-deal. Significant work is underway to ensure that UK exporters can maintain
access to EU markets. We are confident that we will achieve third country listing
with the EU prior to our departure, as we did prior to the April date. This will allow
the UK to export to the EU. A no-deal Brexit would mean that goods traded between
the EU and the UK will be subject to the same tariffs as goods from third countries.</p><p>
</p><p>The UK is the largest producer of sheep and by far the largest exporter of
sheep meat in the EU. Around 30% of production is exported, with 95% of these exports
going to the EU. The application of high EU tariffs on UK exports of sheep meat will
have a substantial negative effect on the income of UK sheep farmers. At Defra, we
are doing all we can to mitigate the challenges they face and we have contingency
plans in place to minimise disruption. We will be monitoring the market situation
closely and My Rt Hon friend, the Secretary of State, has made it clear that we will
support our most vulnerable sectors, such as our sheep farmers.</p><p> </p><p>Government
has also pledged to continue to commit the same cash total in funds for farm support
until the end of this parliament, expected in 2022. This includes all funding provided
for farm support under both Pillar 1 and Pillar 2 of the current CAP. This commitment
applies to the whole UK.</p><p> </p><p>We are in regular dialogue with the farming
unions, processors and allied industries about storage, feed and other supplies in
the event of a no deal. These discussions have been constructive and will continue.</p><p>
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