G’day, trade: UK-Australia deal secured over Downing St. dinner
The broad terms of a UK-Australia trade deal have been agreed over dinner at Downing Street.
Boris Johnson and Aussie PM Scott Morrison have shaken on a pact which represents the first major new trade deal signed by the UK since the country’s departure from the European Union.
The deal was struck over a dinner of Scottish salmon and Welsh lamb.
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A formal announcement is expected on Tuesday.
Australian media reports suggest the deal will also see a host of professional qualifications recognised in both countries, regardless of where they are attained.
The pact is also expected to see a revamp of visa requirements which could see more Brits and Australians emigrating both ways.
Politically, the accord represents a win for both sides.
For Boris Johnson, it’s a sign that Britain will be able to play a role on the international stage as a free-trading nation.
For Scott Morrison, it reduces reliance on China in the Asian arena, as relations between Canberra and Beijing continue to worsen.