The UK trade negotiations with Donald Trump have exposed the inadequate and antiquated nature of our parliamentary processes (“Starmer resists vote on US trade deal”, Report, May 1).
From artificial intelligence regulation to food standards and tech taxation, a US-UK trade deal could have far-reaching consequences. Yet MPs still have no formal powers to amend or reject a final agreement.
While Trump increasingly governs by executive order, bypassing democratic oversight, it is troubling to see the UK government following suit.
The observation of the science, innovation and technology secretary Peter Kyle that “everything is on the table” should concern us all.
Sir Keir Starmer has the chance to break from this democratic deficit by offering parliament a meaningful vote. He should take it.
Tom Wills Director, Trade Justice Movement
This letter to the editors originally appeared in the Financial Times on 8 May 2025.
