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Exiting the European Union (Agriculture)
10 November 2020
Lead MP
Edward Argar
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
BrexitAgriculture & Rural AffairsStandards & EthicsLocal Government
Other Contributors: 4
At a Glance
Edward Argar raised concerns about exiting the european union (agriculture) 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
The draft regulations concern food and feed laws made under the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 to ensure high standards of safety and consumer protection post-Brexit. The amendments correct typographical errors, implement changes for the Northern Ireland protocol, and remedy deficiencies in retained EU law without impacting businesses or introducing new regulatory burdens. Public consultation has been held, with majority support from stakeholders and engagement with devolved Administrations.
Edward Argar
Con
Melton and Syston
The draft regulations ensure the continuity of high food safety standards post-Brexit by amending EU-specific references, transferring powers to UK authorities, and implementing the Northern Ireland protocol. The amendments do not change day-to-day business operations or introduce new regulatory burdens but maintain operability and enforceability of statutes.
Justin Madders
Lab
Ellesmere Port and Bromborough
Acknowledged the Minister's introduction but expressed concerns about the recent drop-off in public consultation responses for food safety regulations. He questioned the robustness of the consultation process, transparency regarding mixed comments, and the readiness of local authorities to implement new requirements.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Expressed gratitude towards the Minister for confirming ministerial contact with Northern Ireland. He raised a technical point about the language used in the regulations which suggested that Northern Ireland was outside the UK, and sought reassurance on this matter.
Edward Argar
Con
Melton and Syston
Responded to queries from the Labour MP Justin Madders about the consultation process. He affirmed confidence in local councils' capacity to implement regulations and assured DUP's Jim Shannon that Northern Ireland remains an integral part of the UK despite legal wording used.
Government Response
BrexitAgriculture & Rural AffairsStandards & EthicsLocal Government
Government Response
Responded to technical points raised by Labour MP Justin Madders regarding consultation robustness, local authority capacity, and transparency. He also addressed a concern from DUP's Jim Shannon about the language used in the regulations concerning Northern Ireland’s status within the UK.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About House of Commons Debates
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