They can seem remote from the everyday priorities of people here at home. But at its heart, trade is a powerful way to deliver what people really care about.
Given the EU’s risk levels, its lack of investment in NATO and its poor relations with its neighbours, it is hardly an attractive partner; more of a liability.
The theoretical aim of policy then should be bridging over what is hopefully a short pause in activity – eliminating near-term distress for households and businesses.
What about the impact on domestic violence, with everyone stuck in their own homes? And on those with serious but non-life threatening health problems?
Our priorities were: tackling global climate change, solving Grand Challenges and making the UK the best place in the world to work and to grow a business.
Our scoping assessment shows there could be a £15.3 billion expansion in overall trade between the two countries, an 18 per cent increase on 2018 levels.