UK-Gulf trade deal secured

The UK has secured a free trade agreement with the six Gulf Cooperation Council states, a deal estimated to be worth £3.7 billion annually.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed the agreement as a 'huge win' for British service industries and manufacturing.

The deal is the first of its kind between a G7 nation and the GCC, and will eliminate tariffs on major British exports like food, drink, and machinery.

Trade Minister Sir Chris Bryant defended the agreement against criticism from human rights groups, stating that the UK raised concerns about abuses during negotiations.

Analysts expect the deal to provide a timely boost to the British economy, though the ongoing conflict in the Middle East may slow the realization of some benefits.