11
Deferred
ESG frameworks in trade agreement lack impact due to absent enforceable dispute settlement.
Conclusion
The Committee concludes that the Agreement establishes useful environmental, social and governance (ESG) frameworks. However, while the inclusion of standalone chapters on anti-corruption, labour rights, environment, gender equality and development represent a step forward in India’s trade agreements, their impact is significantly constrained by the absence of enforceable dispute settlement mechanisms. (Conclusion, Paragraph 79)
Government Response Summary
The government mentions a Responsible Business Conduct review that will be critical to ensuring businesses operate responsibly across operations and supply chains and will update Parliament when the review is complete.
Government Response
Deferred
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
The Responsible Business Conduct review will be critical to ensuring businesses operate in a way that respects human rights, labour rights, the environment, and anti-corruption measures across their operations and supply chains. We will update Parliament when the review is complete.
Source
Committee
Business and Trade Committee
Report
12th Report - UK-India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)
21 Jan 2026
HC 996
Addressee Bodies
Department for Business and Trade
Timeline
Recommendation age
0.4 yrs
Report published
21 Jan 2026