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"I think it’s worth pointing out, the EU is pretty much the only place in the world that doesn’t use free ports”

Rishi Sunak, Sky News

10 February 2020

Facts

Rishi Sunak told Sky News that “the EU is pretty much the only place in the world that doesn’t use free ports”.

This is simply not true. According to the European Commission, the EU has more than 80 “free zones”.

For an excellent analysis of Rishi Sunak’s claim, see BBC reality check, which concludes that “It is not true to say you can't have free ports or tax-free zones if you are a member state of the EU”. It does also add that “It would be easier to take advantage of potential benefits outside the EU.”

Verdict

Chancellor Rishi Sunak made a misleading statement about the EU,  which he has not corrected.

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