Place of the UK in the wider world

Question 1

Trade

Answer 1

.The UK’s most important trading links are with the EU. Goods can be traded between member states without tariffs. This may change when the UK leaves the EU
.The USA is an important historic trading partner
.There has been a recent increase in trade with China

Question 2

Transport

Answer 2

.London is one of the busiest airports in the world

.There are important transport links between the UK and mainland Europe via the Chanel tunnel and sea ferries

Question 3

Electronic Communication

Answer 3

.99% of internet traffic passes along a network of submarine and high-power cables
.Connections are concentrated between the UK and the USA
.There is a further concentration in the Far East
.A project known as Artic Fibre is due to connect London and Tokyo

Question 4

Culture

Answer 4

.The global importance of the English Language has given the UK strong cultural links with many parts of the world
.Music, books and films from the UK are accessed all over the world
.Migrants have brought their own culture to the UK, such as food and festivals

Question 5

Television

Answer 5

Television is one of the UK’s most successful media exports. In 2013-14 it accounted for over £1,28 billion of export earnings

Question 6

What are the UK’s links with the European Union

Answer 6

The EU has 28 member countries. It is an important trading group, but its powers also include political influence
Many in the UK feel that Eu is too influential in making laws which affect the UK. In June 2016, the people of the UK voted to leave the EU. The UK will remain a member until exit negotiations are completed

Question 7

How has the EU affected the UK

Answer 7

.Financial support for farmers and disadvantaged regions in the UK
.There are EU laws and controls on crime, pollution and consumers rights
.In 2013, about 40% of total UK immigrants were from the EU
.Goods, services, capital and labor can move freely between member states and encourage trade

Question 8

What are the UK’s links with the Commonwealth?

Answer 8

The UK is a member of the Commonwealth, a voluntary group of countries, most of which were once British colonies
.The commonwealth Secretariat provides advice and support to member countries on a range of issues including human rights and social and economic development
.There are important trading and cultural links between the UK and the Commonwealth countries. There are also sporting connection such as the Commonwealth Games.