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Future Relationship with the EU
10 December 2020
Lead MP
Penny Mordaunt
Debate Type
Ministerial Statement
Tags
Crime & Law EnforcementEconomyForeign AffairsAgriculture & Rural Affairs
Other Contributors: 43
At a Glance
Penny Mordaunt raised concerns about future relationship with the eu 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:
Government Statement
Crime & Law EnforcementEconomyForeign AffairsAgriculture & Rural Affairs
Government Statement
The Minister Penny Mordaunt updated the House on the progress of negotiations between the UK and EU, highlighting that significant obstacles remain regarding the level playing field, fisheries, and governance. She stated that while talks will resume in Brussels today with a decision due by Sunday, the Government remains committed to securing a deal that respects the UK's sovereignty and control over laws, trade, and waters. The Prime Minister's goal is for trading arrangements resembling those of Australia or Canada, ensuring the UK’s prosperity as an independent nation. The minister emphasised that the UK will continue negotiations but cannot accept a deal compromising these principles.
Rachel Reeves
Lab
Leeds West
Question
The country was hoping for a breakthrough last night, yet there was none. There is a sense of huge dismay as businesses need clarity. She questioned how it has come to this and what happens next if talks break down. The shadow minister also focused on the security implications of no deal, asking for guarantees that border officers and police will be able to access security data.
Minister reply
The Minister thanked Rachel Reeves for her comments but assured her of the Prime Minister’s resolve in securing a deal, emphasising readiness across various scenarios, including an Australian-style outcome. The minister stated that over £700 million has been invested in jobs, technology and infrastructure at the border, alongside providing grants to boost customs intermediary sectors. She reaffirmed the Government's commitment to security measures should negotiations break down.
Question
The Member for Leeds West did not address the central question of making rules without EU override. Mark Harper requested that the Minister take a message to the Prime Minister that this side of the House supports securing the ability of this House to make laws, reflecting on past elections' results.
Minister reply
Penny Mordaunt thanked her right hon. Friend for his remarks and emphasised that the Government has a clear mandate to deliver on the referendum result, representing their constituents’ views who voted to leave the EU.
Pete Wishart
SNP
Perth and Kinross-shire
Question
The member asks about the constant delays in Brexit negotiations, criticising the Government's approach and warns of a potential no-deal scenario that could bring chaos, disruption and ruin for many.
Minister reply
The Minister emphasises constructive engagement during negotiations and appeals to the EU to recognise the UK as an equal sovereign state. She asserts that the focus should be on mutual beneficial outcomes for citizens and businesses.
Hilary Benn
Lab
Leeds South
Question
The member inquires about proposals made by the UK to maintain common high standards post-Brexit as per the political declaration, despite inevitable changes.
Minister reply
The Minister confirms commitment to maintaining high standards but highlights the EU's need to recognise the UK’s control over its destiny.
Tom Hunt
Con
Question
The member argues that capitulating and accepting a deal that does not fully respect a sovereign Britain leaving the EU is the biggest failure, criticising some opposition parties for being overly critical of the Government's negotiating stance.
Minister reply
The Minister acknowledges compromise but emphasises non-compromise on fundamental issues.
Christine Jardine
Lib Dem
Edinburgh West
Question
The member seeks assurance that the Government will not give up in trying to reach a trade deal with the EU if no agreement is reached by Sunday, highlighting the potential catastrophic economic impact.
Minister reply
The Minister reassures that preparations for every eventuality have been made and urges all Members to help secure a deal.
Margaret Ferrier
SNP
Rutherglen and Hamilton West
Question
The member inquires if the Government will also look at deleting clause 50 of the Internal Market Bill, given their concession on clause 45.
Minister reply
The Minister refers to a statement by her Chancellor colleague regarding Northern Ireland's unique position.
Geraint Davies
Lab
Cel-y-Coed
Question
The member requests an economic assessment of any EU deal on offer, similar to the no-deal impact assessment already published.
Minister reply
The Minister affirms that efforts are focused on securing a beneficial deal and reiterates the hope for mutual agreement.
Greg Clark
Con
Islington North
Question
The member praises Britain's vaccine approval progress and urges the Government to reinforce the Prime Minister’s resolve in securing a trade deal, highlighting potential economic benefits.
Minister reply
The Minister reiterates the Prime Minister's commitment to secure a Canada-style arrangement.
Steven Bonnar
SNP
Clydebank and Coplawhill
Question
The member criticises violations of devolution settlement, expresses dissatisfaction with Scotland’s Brexit vote outcome, and asks if the Government will respect democratic intent post-election.
Minister reply
The Minister invites the member to consider supporting negotiations that benefit Scottish constituents.
Duncan Baker
Con
North Norfolk
Question
The member raises concerns about coastal communities' fishing future and highlights its importance beyond current GDP contribution.
Minister reply
The Minister assures the member of the Prime Minister’s resolve on fisheries issues, noting that fish was not a topic during the PM's dinner.
Barry Sheerman
Lab
Harrow West
Question
I must tell the Minister this morning that it is our duty to hold the Government to account at this crucial time for all our constituents. The negotiating skills of the two men leading the negotiations have been impressive, but there is a failure in leadership and determination from the Prime Minister.
Minister reply
The hon. Gentleman’s comments are noted. Our negotiating team has done an incredible job, and we owe them an immense debt of gratitude. We will continue to hold the Government accountable.
Bob Neill
Con
Bermondsey and Old Southwark
Question
A free trade agreement is manifestly advantageous for both sides. Security issues are critical, including civil justice co-operation which does not depend on a free trade agreement. The data adequacy agreement would be beneficial in sharing intelligence information.
Minister reply
My hon. Friend is correct; security and civil justice cooperation are important aspects of the negotiations. Our teams have worked to maintain relationships between law enforcement agencies.
Arfon
Question
With the prospect of a no-deal resolution now greater than ever, does she think that an export tariff of 48% on lamb and 84% on beef would be modest for Welsh farmers?
Minister reply
We are working to secure a deal in the best interests of our farmers. Information on tariffs is available on gov.uk.
Nigel Mills
Con
Amber Valley
Question
Even if a deal is done now, it will be very late for businesses to understand and interpret it. Will she urge the EU to mirror our proposals not to impose full import formalities for six months?
Minister reply
I thank my hon. Friend for his suggestion; we should continue to take pragmatic stances as we go into the new year.
Carla Lockhart
DUP
Upper Bann
Question
Will the Minister outline what actions she and the Government plan to take at the end of the six-month derogation on chilled meats moving from GB to Northern Ireland? Will she commit to taking unilateral action if these arrangements are seen as detrimental?
Minister reply
The success of new opportunities for Northern Ireland is there to be seized. We have committed £400 million to assist businesses and boost economic growth.
Mike Wood
Con
Kingswinford and South Staffordshire
Question
My right hon. Friend and I both campaigned for leave in the referendum. Does she agree that an agreement is only possible if it respects the decision to take back control over our laws, borders and trade?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend is correct; we will stick to those principles and are determined to secure a deal.
Stephen Farry
Alliance
South Antrim
Question
Can she tell us what will be happening specifically on matters such as extradition, data sharing and data adequacy given that the UK is facing a cliff edge at the end of the month?
Minister reply
For every issue raised, there are clear plans for ensuring a smooth transition to new arrangements. We will not compromise on matters of security.
Jonathan Gullis
Con
Stoke-on-Trent North
Question
Will my right hon. Friend assure me that no matter what comes out of these negotiations, the fine world-leading potteries have an exciting future in global Britain?
Minister reply
We are taking care of challenges in any scenario and creating conditions for us to seize opportunities. We will do this in the coming days.
Bill Esterson
Lab
Sefton Central
Question
Last October, stockpiles were built up of essential medicines including asthma inhalers, antibiotics, paracetamol and ibuprofen. Have these stockpiles been returned to the levels they were at in October 2019?
Minister reply
The civil service’s efforts last year stood us in much better stead for the pandemic. A huge amount of work has done to replenish those stocks, while making sure that businesses are trader-ready.
Felicity Buchan
Con
South West Norfolk
Question
Will my right hon. Friend assure me that financial services and the service sector as a whole will be at the forefront of our minds in the next few days, given their importance to our economy?
Minister reply
I can give my hon. Friend those assurances. Services were poorly served by EU membership; there are fantastic opportunities for our service economy.
Rachel Hopkins
Lab
Luton South and South Bedfordshire
Question
Investing in green industries and our transport infrastructure will be key to building back better after the pandemic and transitioning to net zero. With Government support, the automotive sector could move more quickly to producing more electric vehicles and councils could implement the required green infrastructure to support them. Will the Minister outline whether a position on what is considered state aid has been reached?
Minister reply
There were certainly elements of the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster’s statement earlier in the week that touched on that, but we are working and fighting for freedoms to secure opportunities to set conditions for our economy to thrive.
Neil Hudson
Con
Epping Forest
Question
Will my right hon. Friend reassure those involved in agriculture and food production sector that sufficient provisions are in place for veterinary and certification work at borders? Will she also reassure farmers in sectors facing severe challenges in tariffs, such as the sheep and beef sectors, that the Government will provide support?
Minister reply
A great deal of thought has gone into ensuring supplies and personnel meet requirements on the veterinary side. We have always stood by any sector or part of the UK facing tough times.
Mohammad Yasin
Lab
Bedford
Question
England and Wales were due to qualify for BSE negligible risk status next year, but missed the OIE submission deadline. Will the Minister apologise to my constituent in Bedford who runs Dunbia Cardington?
Minister reply
I am sorry to hear of the issue that the hon. Gentleman raises. I would be happy to look into it if he passes those details to my office.
Scott Mann
Con
Question
Will my right hon. Friend confirm that, if we cannot find suitable compromises with our European friends on the remaining issues of the level playing field, governance and fisheries, we will be fully prepared to leave the transition period on Australian terms on 1 January?
Minister reply
I can give my hon. Friend that assurance.
Patricia Gibson
Lab
Question
Yesterday the Prime Minister said Scotland would benefit from a no-deal Brexit, despite higher food prices and job losses. Can the Minister explain to what extent she believes Brexit is turning into the titanic success that the Prime Minister predicted it would be?
Minister reply
I say to the hon. Lady that if she does not want that scenario, she ought to help this Government secure a deal that would be in the interests of her constituents.
Peter Bone
Con
Question
Given the need for firm deadlines when negotiating international trade deals, could the Minister confirm that Sunday is the absolute deadline for these negotiations?
Minister reply
I can give my hon. Friend greater assurance than that because there is a very firm deadline at the end of this year.
Deidre Brock
Lab
Question
Businesses are trying to stockpile against shocks and offset increased costs, but how can they do so if there is not sufficient facility for that stockpiling? What are the Government going to do about that?
Minister reply
For each of these issues, relevant Departments have mitigation plans. We provide practical and financial support through investments in infrastructure, technology and people.
John Baron
Con
Question
Will the Minister convey to the Prime Minister that if the EU refuses to recognise British sovereignty, there is full party support for a no-deal Brexit?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend’s demonstration of support for the Prime Minister and the negotiating team will help in the coming days.
Stephen Timms
Lab
East Ham
Question
In acknowledging its importance, does the Minister confirm that a data adequacy agreement with the EU has been applied for? When is a decision expected?
Minister reply
The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport is the lead Department on this issue; I will ask the Secretary of State to update the right hon. Gentleman.
Lia Nici
Con
Question
The fishing communities are pleased that we have not accepted EU’s unreasonable requests in negotiations. Does my right hon. Friend agree that any deal must allow us to control who fishes in our waters?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend makes a good point, and the Prime Minister knows what his responsibilities are.
Tony Lloyd
Lab
Question
Does the Minister accept that even the sovereign United States believes trade disputes can be resolved through internationalised mechanisms such as the World Trade Organisation? Is not the concern of business about a crash-out no deal limited by the fact that it is not so much the Prime Minister’s guns but the siren voices behind him who want that no-deal Brexit?
Minister reply
No, the Prime Minister has been very clear about what the optimum outcome is. We are talking about an incredibly resilient group of organisations and people.
James Sunderland
Con
Question
I am clear that most constituents really want a free trade deal, but given the ongoing inability of Brussels to accept we are now a sovereign nation, does the Minister agree there may be a point in time at which a clean break is the only option?
Minister reply
If we have to go on those terms then that is what will happen and we will prosper, but it is clearly not our first choice.
Question
The EU is the source of 26% of the UK’s food imports, while the next highest country provides only 4%. Given that we are not acceding to any new markets on January 1st and leaving one with unfettered access, will the Minister admit that a no-deal Brexit will mean increased costs for consumers?
Minister reply
The future is not yet written, and I invite the hon. Lady to assist in achieving our objectives during this critical moment.
Question
Will my right hon. Friend reassure that there will be no new customs infrastructure required in Northern Ireland due to the agreement reached by the Joint Committee on the Northern Ireland protocol?
Minister reply
I can give my hon. Friend that assurance, as we accept our responsibilities regarding the Northern Ireland protocol and we have secured this outcome.
Tim Farron
Lib Dem
Westmorland and Lonsdale
Question
Businesses across various sectors are frustrated with the lack of contingency plans for after January 1st. Will she give businesses an adjustment period to prepare for changes they are not ready for?
Minister reply
I can certainly give that assurance, as we have a phased approach to border management and have provided extensive support and advice to tens of thousands of businesses.
Question
Some suggest the Government wants to trade only on WTO terms. Does she agree that our efforts show we want a good deal but not at any cost?
Minister reply
Absolutely, as someone close to this process and sitting on the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee, I can confirm our focus is on securing a good deal without compromising core principles.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Question
What steps are being taken to secure tax-free transport between Northern Ireland and other UK nations for beef, sheep, pork, vegetables—particularly potatoes—to move hassle-free?
Minister reply
DEFRA and other parts of Government have undertaken significant work to ensure the best possible outcome. £400 million in new money from the Northern Ireland Office was announced today on top of the previously announced £650 million investment.
Matt Vickers
Con
Stockton West
Question
The Opposition have wanted to be in, out or shake it all about regarding Brexit. Does my right hon. Friend agree that their failure to support any deal means they cannot be trusted?
Minister reply
Second only to securing a good deal is what Labour’s position on Brexit will be. We need to focus on the first job and hope all Members of this House, whatever their political hue, will support us in securing that objective.
Rachael Maskell
Lab Co-op
York Central
Question
There are just 18 days left for businesses to prepare. What additional resources will the Minister bring forward to ensure they can be helped not only to the end of the year but beyond January 1st?
Minister reply
Most things businesses need to do are not contingent on final negotiations; there has been a huge investment in people, technology and infrastructure, with a phased approach next year. Businesses have access to information and support services.
Question
Will the Minister confirm that we will not sell out on any priorities such as laws, borders, fishing waters and money? Is no trade deal better than a bad one?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend makes an excellent point; two thirds of my community voted to leave the EU and take back control. We are doing everything to represent their interests.
Wendy Chamberlain
Lib Dem
North East Fife
Question
The Government are removing a clause from the UKIM Bill that would break international law. If there is no deal, will they bring forward new measures that break international law in any upcoming business?
Minister reply
Those clauses were in the UKIM Bill for reasons related to the integrity of the United Kingdom; we will not compromise on this and are doing everything possible to secure a preferable outcome.
Shadow Comment
Rachel Reeves
Shadow Comment
Shadow Minister Rachel Reeves expressed dismay over the lack of progress in talks and criticised the Prime Minister for not providing more details about the negotiations. She questioned what would happen if talks break down and the Government pursues a no-deal scenario, urging the Government to do the responsible thing by bringing back a deal. She also raised concerns regarding the security implications of a no-deal situation, highlighting that key law enforcement tools such as SIS II, Europol, and the European arrest warrant could be lost without a deal on security and data.
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