
I have been contacted regarding the investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS).
ISDS mechanisms along with the inclusion of investment protection provisions in trade agreements help protect UK investors from discriminatory or unfair treatment by the state.
The UK has these kinds of provisions in place within over 90 bilateral investment treaties between the UK and other countries. This helps protect the interests of UK businesses trading across the globe. Despite these agreements, the UK has never had a successful ISDS claim made against it.
Ministers have assured me that the UK’s future approach to investment policy will continue to protect our right to regulate in the public interest, including in relation to healthcare, climate change and environmental objectives.