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Nottingham Post
Nottingham Post
National
Kit Sandeman

MP backs call for low-tax or tax-free zone around East Midlands airport

The Conservative MP for Rushcliffe has joined calls for a tax-free or low-tax zone to be built around East Midlands Airport.

Known as a freeport, it is hoped it would encourage trade post Brexit.

The Government has previously said it would like to see as many as 10 of the zones built, with at least one built inland.

Freeports have existed for centuries, primarily at sea and river trading cities, but are not without critics - earlier this year the EU said it was cracking down on 82 within the EU after identifying that their special tax status had aided the financing of terrorism, money laundering and organised crime.

However supporters say it could boost economic growth within the East Midlands by improving export potential and connectivity to the rest of the country and overseas.

The site benefits from its connectivity - East Midlands Airport is one of the busiest freight airports in the country, it is close to the centre of the national motorway network, and the rail logistics hub is also nearby.

Now, a group of Conservative MPs from throughout Notts, have met with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury Stephen Barclay to lend their support.

Rushcliffe’s Conservative MP Ruth Edwards said: "The East Midlands is in the centre of the country and is strategically placed to be the beating heart of the UK’s recovery post COVID-19.

“We not only have the second largest freight airport in the country but we also have great potential with our rail and road connectivity.

“This site is a fantastic location for a freeport as it connects to 90 percent of the UK's population within four hours.

“It is perfectly placed in the middle of the country to connect with other sites and become a regional centre for innovation and job creation.

“It also allows us to focus our recovery on innovative and green technologies welcoming businesses in the green economy which will help the UK meet its net zero target.”

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