Modi Govt seeks cheaper British visas for Indians; may slash tariffs in return

India and the United Kingdom have formally launched negotiations for the proposed free trade agreement. The UK sees the FTA as a 'golden opportunity' to put British businesses at the 'front of the queue' of the Indian economy. London is seeking a cut in tariffs on scotch whisky and greater access to India's services and tech sector. Reports suggest that in return, the Union Govt wants to make it easier and cheaper for Indians to obtain British visas. Brexit supporters though might oppose New Delhi's expected visa push, as they were keen to cut immigration. The India-UK trade relationship was worth more than 18 billion pounds in 2020.