Brexit could lead to ‘second golden age’ as China opens up for trade deal with UK

BRITAIN is more likely to strike a trade agreement with China thanks to the nation’s vote for Brexit – officials from both sides have claimed.

Xing Houyan, from the state supported Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, claimed the “situation in Western Europe will push China and the UK to make a trade treaty”.

Former Waitrose boss Lord Price claimed the two nations working together could “create a second Elizabethan golden age” while speaking at the Honk Kong chamber of commerce.

He said: “I’m optimistic about the future: particularly in helping create a second Elizabethan Golden Age.

“The first Golden Age was based on peace, prosperity, new trading markets and a flourishing of the arts.

“There's also a prospect for striking new deals with Canada, New Zealand and Australia which could form the beginning of a Commonwealth trading pact.”

“And to the opportunities in the East, where for centuries British merchants have traded with China for tea, white gold and porcelain as well as with Japan, South Korea and other Asian nations.”

He also said the UK is working towards “a continued close trading relationship with Europe”.

Echoing Lord Price's positivity, Mr Shen said: “The global investment environment will be more transparent and create more chances in different fields for new investment.

“Therefore, Chinese companies' outbound direct investment will remain positive and stable.”

A new trade deal between China and Britain could be put through quickly following the Brexit.

Britain has not been able to negotiate its own trade deals while part of the EU, with responsibility outsourced to Brussels.