Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Northern Ireland Protocol: Implementation 2021-03-03 (2)

Wednesday 3 March 2021 · 2 questions

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 1 Partly answered 1 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Government had discussions with the EU on implementing the Northern Ireland protocol, including meetings of the UK-EU Joint Committee and the Northern Ireland/Ireland specialised committee.
  • Northern Ireland businesses have significant opportunities and advantages due to access to both UK and EU markets.
  • These opportunities in Northern Ireland could create a relative disadvantage for businesses in Scotland.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Alan Brown SNP
Northern Ireland Brexit
Context

Discussions on the implementation of the Northern Ireland protocol between the UK and EU are ongoing, with specific issues needing to be addressed.

Question

What recent discussions the Government have had with the EU on the implementation of the Northern Ireland protocol. These include addressing issues that impact Northern Ireland's relationship with the rest of the UK.

Answer from Brandon Lewis

The co-chairs of the UK-EU Joint Committee met last Wednesday to discuss issues with the protocol. These discussions are supported by regular official-level contact, including via the Northern Ireland/Ireland specialised committee which met last Tuesday. The withdrawal agreement structures continue to be used for discussing implementation efforts and commitments made at December's Joint Committee. An informal meeting is scheduled later today.

Answered
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Q2 Alan Brown SNP
Northern Ireland Brexit Business & Trade
Context

Some companies in Northern Ireland have highlighted their dual access to both British and EU marketplaces, raising questions about opportunities and relative disadvantage for Scottish businesses.

Question

Will the Secretary of State confirm that Northern Ireland businesses do indeed have great opportunities due to dual access to UK and EU markets? Also, does this create a relative disadvantage for businesses in Scotland?

Answer from Brandon Lewis

Northern Ireland businesses have significant opportunities and advantages, particularly due to skills in technology, hydrogen, and advanced engineering. There are many things for these businesses to promote globally, which can lead to more business and jobs for Northern Ireland.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Relative disadvantage for Scottish businesses

How: Businesses Have A Huge Opportunity, Huge Competitive Advantage

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