UK Secretary of State for International Trade Liam Fox said the government would not be "rushed" into a deal with Brussels on citizens' rights and that it was important to have an agreement in place before any talks about future trade deals could begin. In comments reported to The Times, Fox said there was a need for a culture change and there was no point in "reshaping global trade" if companies chose to play golf instead of "contributing to our national prosperity. " Downing Street later issued a rebuke, with a spokesperson saying the opportunities ahead should be approached and seized "in a positive manner."
UK Secretary of State for International Trade Liam Fox called British business "lazy and fat" during a reception in the House of Commons. In comments reported to The Times, Fox said there was a need for a culture change and there was no point in "reshaping global trade" if companies chose to play golf instead of "contributing to our national prosperity." Downing Street later issued a rebuke, with a spokesperson saying the opportunities ahead should be approached and seized "in a positive manner."