Ahead of the G20 summit in Delhi, what are the prospects for a free trade deal with India?

Rishi Sunak’s warm relationship with India should stand him in strong stead in the forthcoming negotiations. But there are some obstacles to overcome, writes Sean O’Grady, not least that he needs such a deal for political purposes

Negotiations between the two prime ministers are likely to be tough (PA Archive)

The prime minister, proud of his Indian heritage, is right to feel some special emotion as he and his wife Akshata Murty, an Indian citizen, travel to New Delhi for the G20 summit. He is a son of Southampton, and a Saints fan – but he’s also been granted the affectionate accolade of “son-in-law of India”.

Given the historical, industrial, cultural, sporting and family links between India and Britain, it is fitting, and useful, that his dealings with Indian prime minister Narendra Modi will take place in a warm atmosphere – but their negotiations, especially on the much-vaunted India-UK free trade deal, will be tough.

What does this G20 summit mean to India?