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EU Tariffs United States and Northern Ireland Economy 2025-04-08
08 April 2025
Lead MP
Alex Burghart
Debate Type
Urgent Question
Tags
TaxationNorthern IrelandBrexit
Other Contributors: 13
At a Glance
Alex Burghart raised concerns about eu tariffs united states and northern ireland economy 2025-04-08 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Will the Minister confirm the likely impact on businesses in Northern Ireland of EU tariffs on US imports? The MP is concerned about the implications for Northern Irish economy following the announcement of US tariffs, especially given previous economic setbacks.
Question
Has an impact assessment been done and will it be published? Is the duty reimbursement scheme equipped to handle expected volumes? What protections are in place for Northern Irish businesses compared to GB counterparts?
Minister reply
The Government have prepared for eventualities but publishing speculation without actual EU tariffs is premature. The Secretary of State acknowledges the importance of effective operation of the duty reimbursement scheme and its capacity based on current imports from the US (£800 million).
Question
Has any assessment been made before EU retaliatory measures? Is engagement with European Commission to ensure Northern Ireland interests are considered?
Minister reply
The Government have prepared but publishing speculation is premature. The EU will take action based on its interests, and the Windsor framework provides unique access for Northern Ireland businesses.
Question
How will the chaotic situation caused by US tariffs be mitigated? What steps are taken to ensure President Trump is aware of destabilising effects?
Minister reply
The duty reimbursement scheme must work effectively, and the Government continues negotiations with the US for an economic deal. All necessary steps will protect British businesses in challenging circumstances.
Question
Can strengthening relationships between EU and Republic of Ireland put Northern Ireland into a pivotal position to navigate uncertainty?
Minister reply
Leaving the EU has created new complexities, but the Windsor framework deals with these by ensuring an open border and access to markets.
Question
Will the Secretary of State consider a rapid automatic reimbursement scheme as mentioned previously?
Minister reply
A 'rapid automatic' scheme does not quite fit due to the need for businesses to demonstrate goods are not moving on to the EU market, thus requiring evidence provision to HMRC.
Sammy Wilson
DUP
East Antrim
Question
The reimbursement scheme has failed businesses due to delays and extensive information requirements. Is there an alternative approach the UK Government can take?
Minister reply
What is proposed ignores the realities of Northern Ireland's situation post-Brexit. The duty reimbursement scheme exists because of the Windsor framework, which addresses issues arising from the United Kingdom leaving the EU.
Lincoln Jopp
Con
Spelthorne
Question
What is the average waiting time for the duty reimbursement scheme to process claims and are there plans to reduce this period?
Minister reply
The Hon. Gentleman raises a valid point. HMRC discusses these issues with businesses regularly. The effectiveness of the scheme depends on how quickly companies provide necessary documentation. Additionally, the customs duty waiver scheme allows up to €300,000 per company over three years for tariff-free imports.
Carla Lockhart
DUP
Upper Bann
Question
Can you assure businesses in Upper Bann that the Government will protect them from EU tariffs and provide more clarity?
Minister reply
I have done my best to outline the situation. Northern Ireland gains access to the EU market due to the Windsor framework, but this also brings consequences such as US sanctions leading to EU tariffs.
Robin Swann
UUP
South Antrim
Question
Will the Secretary of State provide more concrete measures to support businesses facing uncertainty due to potential EU retaliatory tariffs?
Minister reply
The situation arises from decisions by the US Administration. The UK supports affected businesses through mechanisms like the reimbursement scheme and waiver scheme, which help mitigate financial impacts.
Gregory Campbell
DUP
East Londonderry
Question
Will the Secretary of State commit to returning to the House with more clarity once EU retaliatory tariffs are clear?
Minister reply
Notwithstanding current challenges, Northern Ireland imports about £800 million worth of goods from the US annually. The government supports businesses through established mechanisms and continues to work on improving economic relations.
Jim Allister
TUV
North Antrim
Question
Is it not embarrassing that the Government has no control over tariffs affecting Northern Ireland? Should trade laws be repatriated?
Minister reply
The Windsor framework was a significant improvement over the previous arrangement. The UK supports businesses through mechanisms like tariff reimbursement, which is practical given current circumstances.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Question
When will discussions begin to remove Northern Ireland from EU rules and ensure its interests are protected?
Minister reply
The situation arises from the Windsor framework. The UK aims to negotiate closer economic ties with the EU, including an SPS and veterinary agreement, which would benefit businesses moving goods across the Irish Sea.
Government Response
The Secretary of State acknowledges that tariffs are not good news and highlights that under the Windsor framework, businesses in Northern Ireland can reclaim any such tariff through existing duty reimbursement schemes. The Government is preparing for potential retaliatory tariffs from the EU, ensuring support for affected businesses. HMRC continues to provide guidance on how businesses can use these schemes effectively.
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