Following the conclusion of the fifth negotiating round on 30 October, almost all chapter areas are now in the advanced stages of talks. A significant proportion of legal text has been agreed across multiple chapters. • Following the progress made in talks to date, we are confident that we are on track for a comprehensive agreement which would provide a significant and mutual benefit to our economies. We believe we are in a good position to move forward with the Biden administration. Securing a comprehensive deal that delivers for the UK is more important than meeting any particular deadline. • The dates of next negotiating round are dependent on decisions made by the Biden administration. We continue to have regular discussions with US counterparts at an official level, and we eagerly await the confirmation of the new United States Trade Representative, Katherine Tai. • Following the successful US Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service audit of UK production systems in 2019, the UK was granted market access for lamb and beef. However, lamb exports cannot commence until the so-called Small Ruminant Rule has been published in the US. • We will continue to work closely with the new administration in order to facilitate the export of UK lamb to the US.