Committees

Investor protection and the impact of Brexit on overseas investment examined

29 April 2019

The International Trade Committee continues its inquiry into UK investment policy. MPs will take evidence on investor protection mechanisms commonly found in trade agreements, how the UK might do more to help both inward and outward investors, and the impact of Brexit on investment into the UK.

Witnesses

Wednesday 1 May, Wilson Room, Portcullis House

At 10.00am

  • Dr David Collins, Professor of International Economic Law, City, University of London
  • Ruth Bergan, Coordinator, Trade Justice Movement
  • Pia Eberhardt, Researcher and Campaigner, Corporate Europe Observatory

At 11.00am

  • Stephen Adams, Senior Director, Global Counsel
  • Jack Knight, Deputy Chief Executive, Investment Association
  • Jonathan Geldart, Regional Chair for Yorkshire and the Humber, Institute of Directors

Purpose of the session

In the first panel of this session, the Committee hears from an academic expert and representatives of campaigning organisations about the various types of investor protection measures often found in trade agreements.

The Committee is expected to consider the nature and purpose of such protections, particularly Investor-State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) provisions, which were a target for criticisms levelled at the proposed EU-USA Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership. ISDS allows investors to sue governments for actions that damage their interests. Its supporters see it as a necessary protection for investors from unfair treatment, while its critics see it as a threat to human rights, health and the environment.
 
In the second panel of the session, the Committee will hear from representatives of businesses involved in overseas investment, both in the UK and abroad. The Committee is expected to focus on the key factors that influence overseas investment decisions and the role of investment promotion and facilitation, including the work carried out by the Department for International Trade, investment bodies in the devolved nations and local authorities. The Committee will also consider whether, and if so how, Brexit has had a damaging effect on UK inward investment levels.

Further information

Image: ScouserUK-Pixabay
 ScouserUK-Pixabay