Press Story

Reacting to the trade deal struck between the UK and India, Marley Morris, associate director for trade at IPPR, said:

"After three prime ministers failed to get a trade deal with India over the line, this is a major win for Starmer—especially at a time when Trump’s tariffs are making international trade even more fraught.

"This deal will cut tariffs, boost growth, and create jobs. It shows that even in a tough global economic climate, the UK can be the grown-ups in the room—and turn uncertainty into opportunity, in stark contrast to Trump’s approach.

“Crucially, the deal was possible by negotiating a social security pact for Indian workers alongside the free trade agreement. This demonstrates the value of international diplomacy and compromise for unlocking economic growth."

The trade deal with India reflects IPPR recommendations to the government, including a proposal to negotiate a social security agreement for Indian professionals working temporarily in the UK.

ENDS

Available for interview on the India trade deal and what it means for the UK are:

Marley Morris, associate director for trade at IPPR
Pranesh Narayanan, economist and research fellow at IPPR
Laura Chappell, associate director for international policy at IPPR

CONTACT

Liam Evans, digital and media officer: 07419 365334 l.evans@ippr.org

NOTES TO EDITORS

IPPR’s report ‘Towards a UK trade strategy’, published in January,made several recommendations regarding the trade deal with India: https://www.ippr.org/articles/towards-a-uk-trade-strategy
IPPR (the Institute for Public Policy Research) is an independent charity working towards a fairer, greener, and more prosperous society. We are researchers, communicators, and policy experts creating tangible progressive change, and turning bold ideas into common sense realities. Working across the UK, IPPR, IPPR North, and IPPR Scotland are deeply connected to the people of our nations and regions, and the issues our communities face. We have helped shape national conversations and progressive policy change for more than 30 years. From making the early case for the minimum wage and tackling regional inequality, to proposing a windfall tax on energy companies, IPPR’s research and policy work has put forward practical solutions for the crises facing society. www.ippr.org