Alarm at secret court scheme in UK-Australia trade deal

Campaigners concerned by controversial plans for tribunals where firms can seek compensation for effect of government policies

A free trade deal between the UK and Australia is on course to include a controversial system of secret courts that will allow businesses to seek compensation if their profits are hit by government policies.

In a move that has alarmed trade unions and anti-poverty campaigners, trade minister Greg Hands said UK negotiators were in talks with Australian officials over proposals to include a scheme that will arbitrate on disputes behind closed doors.