Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Business Support: Transition Period

Wednesday 24 June 2020 · 4 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 4 Partly answered 0 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Government will not extend the transition period.
  • HMRC will issue detailed support plans for Northern Ireland businesses this summer.
  • Discussions continue in the Joint Committee to implement the protocol effectively.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Tommy Sheppard SNP Edinburgh Pentlands
Northern Ireland Brexit
Context

Discussion on the end of the transition period and business readiness.

Question

What steps is the government taking to support businesses in Northern Ireland as they prepare for the conclusion of the transition period? The Prime Minister's stance contrasts with Michel Barnier's views on customs declarations, and the need for clarity and preparation is stressed.

Answer from Brandon Lewis (Minister without Portfolio)

We will not extend the transition period. Detailed support plans from HMRC for Northern Ireland businesses engaging in new administrative processes will be issued this summer, ensuring unfettered access to UK markets post-transition.

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Q2 Jeffrey M. Donaldson DUP Lagan Valley
Northern Ireland Brexit
Context

Questions about potential EU waivers on customs declarations and the promotion of a trusted-trader scheme.

Question

Is the government seeking an EU waiver to avoid customs declarations between Great Britain and Northern Ireland? Additionally, are discussions ongoing regarding a trusted-trader programme?

Answer from Brandon Lewis (Minister without Portfolio)

Discussions continue in the Joint Committee to implement the protocol effectively. We aim to streamline new procedures, avoid unnecessary burdens for businesses, and formalise no-tariff internal UK trade through engagement with retailers and other stakeholders.

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Q3 Simon Hoare Con Dorset South
Northern Ireland Brexit
Context

Reflection on the need for clarity and guidance to help businesses prepare effectively.

Question

Considering recent Select Committee hearings, is there merit in providing stepping-stones between now and December 2020 to aid business preparation?

Answer from Brandon Lewis (Minister without Portfolio)

We are working with Northern Ireland businesses and the Executive, including through an established forum, to set out further details for end-of-transition preparation. Additional guidance will be published this summer to assist in proper preparation by December 2020.

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Q4 Kirsten Oswald SNP Dudley North
Taxation Brexit
Context

Concerns about the delays and interoperability issues with HMRC's new customs declaration service.

Question

Given warnings from an HMRC whistleblower, how confident is the Secretary of State that the new IT solution will function properly to prevent tax losses?

Answer from Brandon Lewis (Minister without Portfolio)

I am confident that HMRC can provide necessary support and work with businesses as they prepare for leaving the EU transition period on December 31, 2020.

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