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Trade Policy Consultative Forum

The Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform recognises the legitimate role of non-governmental bodies in formulating policy and actively engages in consultation with all parties interested in world trade issues.

The UK Government has established regular contact with these bodies through the Trade Policy Consultative Forum (TPCF).This group meets regularly to discuss trade related issues, and brings together: Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) such as development charities, business associations, trade unions and consumer groups.

The Forum provides an opportunity for us to listen, and to provide oral responses, with explanations of the Government's position. It also enables us to consider member’s proposals in formulating trade policy. To ensure we have a stimulating discussion, we request that TPCF members attending the meetings prepare questions on the specific issues and contribute to the discussions.

The Minister for Trade, Investment and Foreign Affairs usually chairs the meeting and BERR officials also attend and participate in the discussions.

The last forum was held in May 2007; please see related documents for the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) record of the meeting. The date of next forum, to be held at the BERR Conference Centre, will be published here in due course.

European Commission Consultation

In addition to UK consultation exercises, the European Commission meets with interested groups to discuss the development of trade policy. Further details can be found on the Commission's web site (see related links)

The WTO

Details of how the World Trade Organisation (WTO) interacts with NGOs can be found on the NGO official WTO website (see related links).

Contact:

TPCF Secretariat
Tel: 020 7215 6744
Fax: 020 7215 2234
E-mail: David.goodridge@berr.gsi.gov.uk