Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

Windsor Framework Labelling Requirements 2024-10-23

2024-10-23

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Questions & Answers

Q1 Direct Answer
Sammy Wilson DUP
East Antrim
▸ Context
The Northern Ireland protocol has created an economic border between Northern Ireland and Great Britain, imposing EU law which affects the supply of goods to Northern Ireland.
What discussions have been had with Cabinet colleagues on implementing the Windsor framework labelling requirements set out in the 'Safeguarding the Union' Command Paper?
Hilary Benn
Having carefully considered the results of the consultation with industry, the Government decided not to proceed with mandatory 'Not for EU' labelling in Great Britain from 1 October 2024. Instead, we will take powers necessary to apply such labelling if required to secure supplies in Northern Ireland.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Sammy Wilson DUP
East Antrim
▸ Context
The previous Government signed the Northern Ireland protocol, which has created an economic border between Northern Ireland and Great Britain. Labour supported food labelling as a way to avoid supply interruptions.
What is the reason for reneging on the promise of food labelling to avoid supply interruptions? What will trigger its imposition if needed?
Hilary Benn
Industry consultation indicated that UK-wide labelling would impose huge costs on industry, leading to higher consumer prices. The Government aims to ensure goods are not delisted in Northern Ireland and has taken powers to apply labelling if there is evidence of supply interruptions.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Specific trigger conditions for implementing the labelling requirements were not detailed.
Response accuracy
Q3 Direct Answer
Josh Newbury Lab
Cannock Chase
▸ Context
Businesses in the questioner's constituency face increased red tape and costs when importing or exporting with Northern Ireland.
Can the Secretary of State confirm that he is committed to unfettered access for goods moving from Northern Ireland to Great Britain?
Hilary Benn
I certainly can confirm that, and it is set out in the United Kingdom Internal Market Act 2020.
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