End of Transition Period Ports of Entry 2020-11-04
2020-11-04
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The transition period is nearing its end, and there are concerns about the readiness of ports to handle new regulations.
What assessment has the Government made of the preparedness of ports of entry in Northern Ireland ahead of the end of the transition period?
The Government continues to engage regularly with the Northern Ireland Executive and stakeholders, including port authorities and district councils, to deliver protocol requirements at pace. We are also continuing discussions with the EU in the Joint Committee to secure a pragmatic approach to agrifood checks.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific assessments or timelines for preparedness of ports.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Operators of Northern Ireland's four ports have expressed concerns about their readiness to check goods from Great Britain by the end of transition, citing issues with IT systems, delays, and lack of clarity.
With eight weeks until the end of transition, who does the Minister hold responsible for the preparedness issues at Northern Ireland's ports?
The work is continuing. We are expanding existing entry points for agrifood controls, building on what happens at ports like Larne and Belfast to streamline new processes. The Minister continues to engage closely with the Executive, port authorities, district councils, and other stakeholders.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not specify who is responsible; instead referred to ongoing work and engagement.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Businesses in Northern Ireland are uncertain about the new regime they will operate under at the beginning of next year, with unclear regulations and processes.
Will the Minister now apologise to businesses that so close to the beginning of next year—so close to the new regime coming in—businesses still do not know what regime they are going to operate under? Is an apology necessary from this Government?
Let me first welcome Tony Lloyd back to the House. Over the last three months, we have published operational guidance on customs, SPS measures and manufacturing goods, announced a £200 million trader support scheme, invested over £150 million in IT systems, and made progress with recruitment and training of new staff for protocol requirements.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide an apology; instead highlighted recent actions taken by the government to support businesses.
Response accuracy