Northern Ireland Protocol 2021-03-03
2021-03-03
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Northern Ireland Protocol's adequacy and impact are under scrutiny, with concerns over its implementation.
What assessment his Department has made of the adequacy of the implementation of the Northern Ireland protocol?
The Government are committed to meeting our obligations in a proportionate way, taking account of the Belfast-Good Friday agreement. We have heard concerns and will take forward further temporary operational steps, details in WMS later today.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific assessment of adequacy not provided
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The EU's approach to the protocol is viewed negatively, leading some to suggest renegotiation.
Would it not make sense to renegotiate the protocol for mutual enforcement or trigger article 16?
My focus is on delivering for Northern Ireland through a pragmatic approach. The EU understands impact and continues engagement with businesses and civic society to address concerns.
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Assessment & feedback
Renegotiation or article 16 activation not addressed
Focus On Delivery
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Businesses have opted out due to complexities, questioning the government's handling.
Does the Secretary of State accept that the Government's denial over an Irish sea border has hampered business preparations for trade with Northern Ireland?
I encourage businesses to engage with the trader support service, which works effectively. The Government worked continuously to ensure UK businesses can trade across the country but acknowledges issues post-transition period and will outline measures later.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific denial impact not acknowledged
Encouragement For Engagement
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Back Benchers want to tear up the deal, causing potential instability.
Will the Secretary of State reject the demands of the European Research Group and avoid placing an Irish sea border?
Focus is on delivering protocol as it was designed, respecting peace and prosperity in Northern Ireland. The agreement respects north-south and east-west relations.
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Assessment & feedback
Public rejection of ERG not addressed
Focus On Delivery
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
Issues with trader support service have led to disruption and confusion.
Why is the Secretary of State saying that disruption was not envisaged, given known issues with the trader support service before transition period?
Trader support service has 34,000 users, calls handled in six seconds on average, 98% declarations processed within 15 minutes. I am happy to engage directly if he provides examples of issues.
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Assessment & feedback
Denial of anticipated disruption not addressed
Highlighting Service Success
Response accuracy
Q6
Partial Answer
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Context
The implementation of EU checks has caused significant trade disruptions in Northern Ireland despite grace periods. The protocol's promise of unfettered trade between GB and Northern Ireland is questioned.
Even with grace periods, there has been massive disruption of trade due to the implementation of EU checks in Northern Ireland. Does the Secretary of State agree that more than just extending grace periods is needed to deliver unfettered trade? There should be a reset or rethinking to exempt Northern Ireland from EU laws and European Court of Justice judgments.
The Secretary respects the questioner's consistent views but maintains that unfettered access for Northern Irish businesses to the rest of the UK has been ensured. He acknowledges the need to respect the epidemiological unit of the island of Ireland and accepts its impact. The right hon. Gentleman is correct in noting the importance of ensuring Northern Ireland enjoys products, commercial activities, and daily life as part of the UK.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask for a significant change in current arrangements was not directly addressed
Response accuracy
Q7
Partial Answer
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Context
The joint consultative working group offers a chance for businesses, civic society, and politicians to voice their concerns about Northern Ireland's protocol issues. However, details are lacking, suggesting missed opportunities.
If businesses had been heard last year, disruption could have been avoided. The current opportunity through the joint consultative working group should be seized with formal roles for these groups in shaping how the protocol works. Without this input, no decisions can proceed effectively.
The hon. Lady is welcomed to her new role with optimism for her advocacy on behalf of Northern Ireland. The Minister has engaged businesses throughout, including through the business engagement forum scheduled soon and direct meetings with Vice-President Šefčovič.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask for a formal role in shaping protocol workings was not directly addressed
Response accuracy