Windsor Framework Economic Competitiveness 2023-03-22
2023-03-22
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from concerns about the economic competitiveness differences between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK under the new trade arrangements.
Whether he has made a comparative assessment with Cabinet colleagues of the potential impact of the Windsor framework on economic competitiveness in (a) Northern Ireland and (b) the rest of the UK.
The Windsor framework restores the free flow of trade from Great Britain to Northern Ireland through a green lane, guarantees Northern Ireland businesses unfettered access to the UK market on a permanent basis, and offers a whole host of other benefits.
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Assessment & feedback
(a) specific impact comparison between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK; (b) details about economic competitiveness
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Prime Minister described Northern Ireland as 'the world's most exciting economic zone' due to its position in both the UK and EU markets, raising concerns about a competitive disadvantage for other parts of the UK.
Does the Secretary of State agree with the assessment that Northern Ireland is the world's most exciting economic zone, given its unique access to both UK and EU markets? If so, does this imply that the rest of the UK is at a disadvantage?
I thank the hon. Gentleman for acknowledging what a good deal the Windsor framework is. As part of the UK, Northern Ireland's businesses and consumers are able to benefit from new trade agreements outside the EU.
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Assessment & feedback
specific disadvantage for other parts of the UK due to Northern Ireland's unique position
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The Prime Minister stated that more companies would invest in Northern Ireland due to its position, potentially reducing investments elsewhere in the UK.
By the Secretary of State's and the Prime Minister's own admission, Northern Ireland is better placed economically than the rest of the UK because of its access to the EU single market. If companies are investing more in Northern Ireland, they will invest less in other parts of the UK. Would that be seen as a win-win situation?
There is a huge amount of inward investment flowing into Northern Ireland from outside these isles, and prosperity builds on the peace and stability that the Belfast/Good Friday agreement has brought. That is why we should welcome the Windsor framework.
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Assessment & feedback
direct comparison between economic impact in Northern Ireland versus rest of UK
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Scotland voted to remain in the EU, as did Northern Ireland. However, only Northern Ireland retains access to the EU single market.
Scotland, like Northern Ireland, rejected Brexit. Both were dragged out of the EU despite voting to remain. Yet Northern Ireland has retained access to the EU single market and economic benefits it brings. Should Scotland have a similar deal?
With the greatest respect, the positions of Northern Ireland and other UK nations are not comparable due to unique historical and geographical factors. The Windsor framework addresses these specific circumstances and safeguards achievements from the Belfast/Good Friday agreement.
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Assessment & feedback
specific economic deal for Scotland similar to Northern Ireland's arrangement
Unique Historical Context Of Northern Ireland
Response accuracy
Q5
Direct Answer
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Context
Concerns about the supply of veterinary medicines and safe movement of animals post-Brexit.
Can my right hon. Friend update the House on progress towards securing long-term supply of veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland, and smoothing the safe movement of animals between GB and NI?
A grace period on veterinary medicines is in place until December 2025. The new atmosphere between the UK and EU allows us to negotiate and address concerns in good time regarding veterinary medicines and animal movement.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy